Dentistry

Abstract

Oral Hygiene Behavior during Fixed Orthodontic Treatment

Anuwongnukroh N, Dechkunakorn S and Kanpiputana R

Objective: To assess oral hygiene behavior among patients undergoing orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances.

Material and Method: One hundred and five orthodontic patients (33 males and 72 females) treated with fixed appliances at the Orthodontic Clinic, Department of Orthodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Mahidol University, Thailand were studied. Patients were requested to fill out a structured questionnaire regarding the reason for seeking orthodontic treatment, the necessity of orthodontic treatment in daily life, oral hygiene behavior after placement of fixed orthodontic appliances. The data was analyzed to determine the frequency distribution and percentage ratio for each of the variables.

Results: Approximately 83% of the patient sought orthodontic treatment for esthetic tooth alignment and 85.7% reported orthodontic treatment was necessary in their daily lives. During orthodontic treatment, 61% of the patients used orthodontic toothbrush, 81.9% used fluoride toothpaste. Percentage of regular and occasional uses of dental floss were 19% and 60% Similarly the use of regular and occasional use of mouth wash was 23.8% and 55.2%, toothpick 21% and 51.4%, and interdental brush 36.2% and 51.4%. Approximately 45% of the patients brushed their teeth in the morning and before bed, 28.6% brushed after meals, and 25.7% brushed every time after meals or snacks. About 83% reported that their orthodontists or dental assistants instructed them how to brush their teeth. Only 52.4% of the patients received instructions about oral hygiene care supplements.

Conclusion: Most patients sought orthodontic treatment for esthetic tooth alignment and reported the necessity of orthodontic treatment in daily life. Although most of the patients used fluoride toothpaste, orthodontists and dental assistants should increase their awareness for instructing their patients in oral hygiene care to prevent caries and periodontal disease during fixed orthodontic treatment. Oral hygiene instruction is essential in all cases of orthodontic treatment and the use of adjuncts must be reinforced.