Periodontal and microbiological evaluation in cleft lip/palate patients undergoing orthodontic treatment: An in vitro study

Periodontal and microbiological characteristic among cleft lip and/or palate patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment is of interest. Plaque and saliva samples showed high prevalence of <i>Streptococcus mutans</i> (83%), <i>Lactobacillus spp.</i> (67%), and <i>Porphyromonas gingivalis</i> (55%). <i>in vitro</i> analysis showed significantly greater biofilm formation on stainless steel brackets compared to ceramic brackets (p < 0.01), confirmed by SEM imaging. Elevated levels of IL-1β and MMP-8 in gingival crevicular fluid were positively correlated with microbial load (r = 0.72, p < 0.05). Thus, the influence of bracket material on biofilm formation and local inflammatory response is shown.