Assessment of oral hygiene habits and periodontal status of patients during and after orthodontic treatment

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the relationship between orthodontic treatment, oral hygiene practices, and periodontal health in individuals undergoing or completed orthodontic treatment. MATERIALS AND METHOD: Systemically healthy patients undergoing or completed stable orthodontic treatment were included in the study. The periodontal status of 142 participants was determined using a comprehensive oral hygiene questionnaire and clinical oral examinations to assess various periodontal indices. Chi-square and t-tests were used for statistical analyses to compare periodontal status metrics between groups. RESULTS: Statistical analyses revealed no significant differences between oral hygiene habits, periodontal indices, or periodontal status between the ongoing treatment (OT) and post-orthodontic treatment (PT) groups (p>0.05). However, significant differences were noted in attachment level, dental visit frequency, and reasons for visits between the OT and PT groups (p<0.05). While participants generally showed similar oral hygiene awareness and practices, differences arose in toothbrushing times during orthodontic treatment and adherence to orthodontist recommendations. CONCLUSION: This study investigated the effect of OT on oral health and concluded that OT did not change oral hygiene habits but affected attachment levels. Orthodontists should consistently guide patients on oral hygiene and managing clinical attachment loss. In these cases, the patient should be referred to a periodontist when necessary.