Bacteremia after Orthodontic Banding

The placement of orthodontic bands on molar teeth is a routine procedure during orthodontic treatment .There is a possibility that bacteria may enter the blood stream during this process. The objective of this study was to determine the frequency of post procedural bacteremia in patients undergoing orthodontic banding. A Cross sectional survey was carried out at the Department of Orthodontics, de,Montmorency College of Dentistry/ Punjab Dental Hospital Lahore during a period of 6 months (1st March ,2009 to 31st August,2009) The study included 140 subjects with age range between 8-25 yrs of both sexes. Bands were placed on molar teeth and blood samples were taken before and after placement of bands. Blood cultures were done on the samples to assess the presence of bacteremia. The study revealed that there was no significant bacteremia after orthodontic banding so as to be considered a potential threat for normal patients. It was concluded that the level of bacteremia detected was not significant to be considered hazardous in routine orthodontic treatment.The prescription of antibiotic therapy should be based on the latest guidelines.