This study is set to determine the improvement in plaque levels utilizing Plaque Index Simplified scores in orthodontic patients using probiotic toothpaste and regular toothpaste. It will further analyze the mean difference in oral hygiene scores between metal and ceramic brackets in regular toothpaste and probiotic toothpaste groups.
Probiotic toothpaste is formulated to introduce beneficial bacteria into the oral cavity, promoting a balanced microbiome and inhibiting the growth of pathogenic bacteria. Previous research suggests that probiotics can reduce plaque formation, gingival inflammation, and pathogenic bacterial load. By potentially improving the oral microbiome, probiotic toothpaste could offer a superior alternative to standard toothpaste for maintaining oral hygiene in orthodontic patients. Metal and ceramic brackets differ not only in aesthetics but also in their interaction with the oral environment. Ceramic brackets are more brittle and can be more prone to plaque accumulation due to their rougher surface compared to metal brackets. This study will determine the improvement in plaque levels utilizing Plaque Index Simplified scores in orthodontic patients using probiotic toothpaste and regular toothpaste. It will further determine the mean difference in oral hygiene scores between metal and ceramic brackets in regular toothpaste and probiotic toothpaste groups. Plaque will be assessed using plaque disclosing tablets before the bonding (T1) and 3 weeks after the bonding (T2). The data will be collected on Plaque Index Simplified chart. Eligible participants will be randomly allocated to one of the two groups. Group A (Control): Participants will be advised to use regular toothpaste twice a day for 3 weeks after the bonding. A standard toothpaste and brushing technique will be conveyed to all the participants. Group B (Intervention): Participants will be advised to use a Probiotic toothpaste twice a day for 3 weeks after the bonding. A probiotic toothpaste and brushing technique will be conveyed to all the participants. The total sample size for each group would be 26. Since this study has 2 groups, a total number of 52 (N) will be required. Group 1: Regular toothpaste and Group 2: Probiotic toothpaste.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
PREVENTION
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
52
Composition: Main - Water, calcium carbonate, calcium glycerophosphate, glycerin, xylitol, sodium bicarbonate, sweet fennel oil (Foeniculum vulgare), carrageenan, maltodextrin, Dental-Lac (Lactobacillus paracasei), potassium sorbate, yucca (Y. filamentosa) powder, stevia leaf extract (Eupatorium rebaudiana bertoni), zinc chloride. Usage: This is mint flavored toothpaste containing Lactobacillus paracasei which has demonstrated the ability to help address harmful strains of oral flora, and promotes the maintenance of a healthy teeth and gums. The participant will be instructed to brush with it twice daily.
Aga Khan University
Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan
Plaque Index Simplified
Number of sites with plaque/ Number of sites evaluated x 100
Time frame: Before and three weeks after bonding
Gingival Index
Gingival Index measures gingival condition of the marginal and interproximal tissues (mesial, lingual, distal, facial) separately on the basis of 0 to 3 with 0=Normal gingiva; 1= Mild inflammation - slight change in color and slight edema but no bleeding on probing; 2= Moderate inflammation - redness, edema and glazing, bleeding on probing; 3= Severe inflammation - marked redness and edema, ulceration with tendency to spontaneous bleeding.
Time frame: Before and three weeks after bonding
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