The number of orthodontic treatment provided to Brazilian population has been increased.
Unfortunately, some negative effects such as gum bleeding and bad breath are commonly
observed. It partially happens because tooth brushing and flossing become more difficult in
the presence of braces. Therefore, there is a need for clinical protocols able to maintain
the mouth healthy during orthodontic treatment.
Considering that proper use of mouthwashes by in individuals without braces is accompanied by
decrease in plaque and gum inflammation levels, it was hypothesized that, during orthodontic
treatment their anti-gingivitis and anti-plaque properties would positively affect oral
health. Objectives: The present study will compare the effects of two commercially available
mouthwashes with a placebo mouthwash in orthodontic patients wearing fixed appliances.
Whole-mouth clinical examinations will be performed in periodontally healthy patients 15 days
before, at the day of bonding and also 3 and 6 months after braces bonding. Hard and soft
tissues status, presence of gingivitis and amount of dental plaque will be monitored to
determine mouthwashes efficacy. At these same time-points plaque samples will be collected
from dental sites and braces surfaces aiming at determining total levels of bacteria and
levels of specific bacteria related to gum disease. After a full-mouth ultrasonic debridement
to remove dental plaque, stains and tartar, patients will be randomly assigned to an
Essential oils, Cetylpyridinium chloride or a placebo mouthwash for 6 months (40 ml/day).
Further, samples of orthodontic wires will be analyzed under microscopy to check whether
regular use of mouthwashes increases the risk of corrosion or not.