THE IMPACT OF ORAL HYGIENE MAINTENANCE ON THE GINGIVAL HEALTH OF PATIENTS HAVING FIXED ORTHODONTIC APPLIANCES

Abstract Objective: to evaluate the oral hygiene habits among patients experiencing fixed orthodontic treatment Material and method: The study was conducted in the orthodontic department of Multan medical and dental college, Multan. One hundred and five patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment were included in the study. Duration of study was 5months and 12 days. Patients were asked to fill out a questionnaire about the reason for undergoing treatment, the importance of orthodontic treatment in life, and oral hygiene practice after having fixed orthodontic treatment. Statistical data were analyzed by SPSS version 22 to determine the frequency distribution and percentage ratio for each variable. A Chi-square test was applied to compare gingivitis and frequency of brushing and a p-value ≤ 0.05 was considered significant. Results: The mean age of participants was 20± 4.7 years, with females predominant (71%). Most of the patients were undergoing treatment due to a friend’s suggestion (32%) and a dentist’s suggestion (17%). Most patients brushed twice daily (25%) or after every meal (24.4%) and still have gingivitis which represents brushing alone is not enough. Chi- square test was utilized between frequency of brushing and gingivitis and p- value was > 0.05 which is considered insignificant. The most preferred toothbrush was the general toothbrush (28%) and unspecified brush (23%). Which means proper knowledge of the type of brush was lacking. Only 41% of patients were sure about using fluoridated toothpaste which again shows a lack of awareness. 35% of patients were using a toothpick and 22% were using pins to clean their teeth in absence of a brush which again shows a lack of proper knowledge. 37% of patients were using their mouth wash and 24% were using interdental brushes occasionally. Conclusion: orthodontic treatment itself causes plaque retention and gingivitis so in order to maintain good oral hygiene self-motivation and proper knowledge given by the care provider is very necessary to improve gingival outcomes.