Effectiveness of an oral hygiene program for patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment

ABSTRACT

The aim of the present study was to assess the effectiveness of an oral hygiene program for patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment. Main sample consisted of one hundred patients with an age range of 12-25 years, having a full complement of permanent dentition, reporting to the orthodontic department of the de, Montmorency College of Dentistry, Lahore. Community Periodontal Index was used to assess the periodontal status of these patients. From these 100 patients, 20 patients having good oral hygiene and in need of fixed orthodontic treatment were divided into experimental and control groups, and their periodontal status was assessed before and during fixed orthodontic treatment. Modified Bass toothbrushing technique and the relation between the fixed orthodontic appliances, plaque accumulation and gingival inflammation were explained to the experimental group. Data was analyzed by using SPSS [Version 8.0] in personal computer. Results showed although no significant differences were noted in the periodontal status of experimental and control groups, but as a group, control group patients showed more statistically significant deterioration of periodontal health as compared to the experimental group