Factors affecting dental biofilm in patients wearing fixed orthodontic appliances

摘要

The aim of this study is to investigate the amount and the distribution of biofilm in patients wearing fixed appliances and its relation with age, gender, frequency of tooth brushing, and patient motivation. The sample comprised 52 patients (15.5?±?3.6?years old, 30 females and 22 males) wearing fixed orthodontic appliances. Dental biofilm was assessed using a modified plaque index (PI). A questionnaire was used to collect patient’s information, including gender, age, treatment motivation, and frequency of tooth brushing. Gingival (PI score?=?0.9?±?0.7), mesial (0.8?±?0.6), and distal (0.8?±?0.5) areas accumulated more biofilm than occlusal areas (0.3?±?0.3) (P?