Protocols and Technologies Used by Italian Dental Professionals to Maintain Good Oral Health in Orthodontic Patients Before, During and After Treatment: A Survey Study

Background: Orthodontic appliances increase biofilm accumulation by expanding plaque retention sites. Enamel demineralization and periodontal inflammation are considered to be the most prevalent consequences of biofilm formation in orthodontic patients, with reported prevalence rates of up to 50%. To date, there are different procedures and indications that have been used for the treatment of these conditions. Therefore, professionals may use different technologies and protocols to control bacterial biofilm. The aim of this study was to investigate the protocols and technologies used by Italian dental professionals to maintain good oral health in orthodontic patients before, during and after treatment. Methods: A total of 155 dental professionals, dentists, dental hygienist students and dental hygienists, attending the Italian Academy of Advanced Technologies in Oral Hygiene Sciences (A.T.A.S.I.O.) congress, completed a questionnaire to identify prevention technologies and protocols before, during and after orthodontic treatment. Results: The results show equivalent responses between dentists and dental hygienists, with most dental hygienists more likely to personalize treatment. Remineralization technologies and protocols are selected based on patient characteristics. During professional oral hygiene sessions, the most commonly used technologies before, during and after therapy are ultrasonic scaler and airflow with powders. Mouthwashes and toothpastes are customized and shared with the patient, with remineralizing technologies predominant in toothpastes. After treatment, aesthetics is evaluated and the whitening protocol is selected based on the patient’s characteristics. Conclusions: There is not a specific prevention program associated with each orthodontic therapy in the literature, so it is necessary to tailor the treatment to best manage the risks of orthodontic therapy and maintain healthy tissues.