Biofilm management in orthodontics

A number of dental professionals worldwide expressed concern over complications due to patient’s poor oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment.

Fixed braces severely hinder correct biofilm removal, influence changes in biofilm composition and distribution and thus create a favorable condition for plaque to rapidly adhere and accumulate. As a result, enamel demineralization and gingivitis have been regarded as the most prevalent consequences of biofilm formation among orthodontic patients.

In general, clinicians provide routine oral hygiene instruction to orthodontic patients but the efficacy of OHI might be limited, as only individually created oral hygiene plan is sustainable.

• the most important features and differences of biofilm accumulation in orthodontic patients
• the most effective way of managing biofilm  
• how to select appropriate oral hygiene devices and techniques
• how to create sustainable individual oral hygiene plan