Effects of fixed orthodontic appliances on subgingival microflora.
OBJECTIVE
Fixed orthodontic appliances cause plaque accumulation around bands and brackets. Since the microbiological composition of dental plaque is closely connected to periodontal tissue health, the aim of this study was to determine the effects of fixed orthodontic appliances on subgingival microflora and periodontal status.


METHODS
This prospective study was carried out on 32 adolescents scheduled for fixed orthodontic treatment. Subgingival dental plaque samples and periodontal records (pocket probing depth and clinical attachment level) were obtained in four recording times: before bonding of fixed appliances (T0), 1 (T1), 3 (T2) and 6 (T3) months after the beginning of orthodontic therapy, in order to detect the changes in periodontopathic anaerobe microbial flora and its effects on periodontal status.


RESULTS
The values of pocket probing depth, total number of microorganisms and number of patients with positive findings of Prevotella intermedia and other periodontopathic anaerobes increased from T0 to the maximum obtained in T2 recording time. Both clinical and microbiological values decreased 6 months after the beginning of orthodontic therapy.


CONCLUSIONS
The therapy with fixed appliances may transitionally increase the growth of periodontopathogenic bacteria and consequently result in gingival inflammatory response but without destructive effect on deep periodontal tissues.
Ristic
M
M
Department of Orthodontics, Clinic of Stomatology, Military Medical Academy, Crnotravska, Belgrade, Serbia. mristic17@EUnet.yu
Vlahovic Svabic
M
M
Sasic
M
M
Zelic
O
O
D000293:Adolescent; D001421:Bacteria, Anaerobic / Q000302:isolation & purification; D002484:Cementation; D016009:Chi-Square Distribution; D002648:Child; D015169:Colony Count, Microbial; D003773:Dental Plaque / Q000150:complications / Q000209:etiology / Q000382:microbiology*; D005260:Female; D005891:Gingivitis / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009967:Orthodontic Appliances / Q000009:adverse effects*; D010514:Periodontal Pocket / Q000209:etiology / Q000382:microbiology*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D018709:Statistics, Nonparametric