"Investigation of the Periodontal and Microbiological Status of Patients Undergoing Fixed Orthodontic Therapy"

The aim of the study was to investigate the periodontal and microbiological status of patient undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment. Methods: In this study, plaque samples were collected from 12 patients at baseline, four monthly visits during orthodontic treatment and at 30 days after removal of the appliance. A benzoyl-DL-arginine-naphthylamide (BANA) test was performed to identify the periodontal pathogens. Dark field microscopy was used to recognize the morphotypes. The Plaque Index and probing depths were assessed at each test interval to determine the hygiene and periodontal status of the patients. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance and Tukey’s test. Results: Significant increase in plaque score, probing depths, and BANA scores were found at each interval after placement of orthodontic appliances. The levels, however returned to baseline after removal of the appliances. Dark field microscopy confirmed increases in small spirochetes (8.5%), large spirochetes (2%), non-motile rods (8.5%), fusiforms (5.5%), and filaments (1%) with orthodontic treatment. Conclusions: Patients undergoing orthodontic therapy have an increase in plaque accumulation, probing depth, and microbial activity that may be associated with periodontal destruction. Thirty days after removal of the orthodontic appliance, the plaque score, probing depth, and BANA test score returned to almost baseline level.