Comparative Study of Periodontal Health in Patients with Fixed Braces Versus Clear Aligners.

BACKGROUND

Orthodontic therapy is often used to cure dental malocclusions; however, since orthodontic equipment is difficult to keep clean, it might have an adverse effect on periodontal health. Clear aligners and fixed braces are two common orthodontic treatments.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this research, 100 patients receiving orthodontic treatment at a dental clinic ranged in age from 18 to 35. Two sets of patients were created: 50 with transparent aligners and 50 with fixed braces. At baseline, three months, and six months, periodontal health was evaluated using the plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), and probing depth (PD). Both groups received advice on oral hygiene. SPSS software was used for data analysis, with a significance level of < 0.05 for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

PI, GI, and PD did not vary significantly between the two groups at baseline ( > 0.05). PI (2.3 ± 0.4) and GI (1.8 ± 0.3) in the fixed braces group were significantly higher after three months than in the clear aligners group (PI: 1.5 ± 0.3, GI: 1.2 ± 0.2, < 0.05). At six months, the group using fixed braces had a substantially higher PD (3.5 ± 0.5 mm) than the group wearing transparent aligners (2.8 ± 0.4 mm, < 0.05). Throughout the course of the trial, the group using transparent aligners had greater periodontal health.

CONCLUSION

In comparison with patients wearing fixed braces, individuals using transparent aligners showed improved periodontal health, as seen by decreased levels of plaque buildup, gingival inflammation, and probing depth. For individuals who are worried about their periodontal health while undergoing orthodontic treatment, clear aligners could be a better choice.