NCT05721781 · Wake Forest University Health Sciences
Reducing Risk for Infective Endocarditis
(PIE-B)
What this study is about
This clinical trial is studying if bacteria found in a participant's bloodstream after brushing their teeth can be prevented with a dental cleaning and more education on how to best brush and care for their teeth. One group of participants will have a dental cleaning and taken by mouth health instructions and the other group of participants will not.
View original scientific description
This clinical trial is studying if bacteria found in a participant's bloodstream after brushing their teeth can be prevented with a dental cleaning and more education on how to best brush and care for their teeth. One group of participants will have a dental cleaning and oral health instructions and the other group of participants will not. Researchers will compare the blood test results from the two groups to see if the education made a difference in preventing bacteria and how long it stays in the bloodstream.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Age 18 years or older.
- Greater than 6 months since last dental hygiene prophylaxis (cleaning).
- 10 or more accessible teeth (including implants, with a minimum of 8 natural teeth).
- Willing and able to provide informed consent.
- Willing to comply with all study procedures and be available for the duration of the study.
- Willing to forgo routine professional dental cleanings while enrolled in the trial.
Exclusion criteria
- At high risk for IE, as defined by the 2007/2021 AHA Guidelines:
- Prosthetic cardiac valve or prosthetic material used for cardiac valve repair.
- Previous episode of IE.
- Cardiac transplantation recipient with cardiac valvulopathy.
- Specific congenital heart disease conditions.
- Pregnant, by self-report, or planning to become pregnant during the study period.
- Affected by a condition that, in the opinion of the investigator, may preclude them from study completion or put them at increased risk such as :
- Hemodialysis dependent.
- Have a long-term intravascular catheter (e.g., for chemotherapy or parenteral nutrition).
- Active injection drug use (IDU).
- Clotting disorder such as, hemophilia.
- Have a solid organ transplant or hematopoietic stem cell transplant, or ongoing treatment for hematologic cancer.
- Currently incarcerated.
- Systemic antibiotic use within the past 2 weeks.
- Undergoing orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances (brackets and wires) or plans to do so during the study period.
- Taking or requiring antibiotic prophylaxis prior to dental procedures for other reasons, e.g., to prevent prosthetic joint infection .
- Three or more teeth with moderate to severe gingival hyperplasia.
- Has clinically detectable emergent or urgent dental needs that, in the trained and calibrated Oral Examiner's opinion, would require definitive dental care during the study period.
Where
- Boston, Massachusetts
- Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Newark, New Jersey
- New York, New York
- Rochester, New York
- Charlotte, North Carolina
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Aug 22, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations