Comparison of Plaque Removal Efficacy of Different Toothbrushes in Clear Aligner Patients

Overview

This study aims to compare the effectiveness of manual and powered toothbrushes in removing dental plaque in patients undergoing clear aligner orthodontic treatment. Clear aligner treatment uses attachments bonded to teeth to facilitate tooth movement. These attachments may increase plaque accumulation around the tooth surface. Poor plaque control can lead to dental caries and periodontal problems. In this study, patients receiving clear aligner treatment will brush their teeth using either a manual or a powered toothbrush. Dental plaque levels around attachments will be evaluated before and after brushing using a modified plaque index. The results of this study may help determine whether one type of toothbrush is more effective than the other in maintaining oral hygiene during clear aligner therapy.

Dental plaque is a complex biofilm and a primary etiological factor in the development of dental caries and periodontal diseases. Orthodontic treatments may increase plaque accumulation due to the presence of attachments bonded to the tooth surface. Clear aligner therapy has become increasingly popular due to its esthetic and removable nature. However, attachments used during treatment may compromise oral hygiene by promoting plaque retention, particularly in the gingival region. This study is designed to evaluate and compare the plaque removal effectiveness of manual and powered toothbrushes in patients undergoing clear aligner orthodontic treatment. A total of 14 patients receiving clear aligner therapy will be randomly assigned to either a manual toothbrush group or a powered toothbrush group. Dental plaque accumulation around attachments will be assessed before brushing (T0) and after a standardized two-minute brushing period (T1) using the Modified Plaque Index adapted for orthodontic patients. Plaque scores will be evaluated at multiple tooth surfaces (mesial, distal, occlusal, and gingival) and analyzed both on a patient-based and tooth-based level. Attachments will also be categorized as conventional or optimized, and plaque reduction will be compared between attachment types. The findings of this study are expected to provide evidence regarding the effectiveness of different toothbrush types in maintaining oral hygiene in patients treated with clear aligners.