Improving oral hygiene for patients with orthodontic appliances

Orthodontists and Dental care professionals (DCP’s) have a key role to play in the early recognition and diagnosis of gingival and periodontal diseases and ensuring patients maintain a good level of oral hygiene and follow dietary advice throughout their orthodontic treatment. Oral health plays an important role in the general health and wellbeing of individuals, DCP’s probably play the most important role in advising their patients about how they can make choices that improve and maintain their dental health.

Inadequate oral hygiene and a poor diet during orthodontic treatment can result in decalcification and subsequent caries, gingivitis and periodontal disease. It is essential that patients continue to see their General Dental Practitioners (GDP’s) regularly throughout treatment for assessment and treatment of any caries or periodontal disease. Untreated periodontal disease during active orthodontic treatment may cause bone loss, tooth mobility or tooth loss.

This action research project is aimed at improving the oral hygiene of orthodontic patients following a simple plan; Plan, Act, observe and then reflecting.

This topic is one of significant interest to myself as I spend a huge amount of time talking about the importance of OH, not only with my patients but also when teaching trainee dental students. The results of this action research have highlighted the need for greater patient and clinician education and ensuring the patients are fully supported and are co-operative throughout their treatment.