Awareness of orthodontic patients about the maintenance of home and professional prevention measures during active orthodontic treatment

Aim: To assess awareness of orthodontic patients regarding oral hygiene measures during active orthodontic treatment in Riyadh region, Saudi Arabia. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among 202 subjects aged between 15-25 years undergoing orthodontic treatment in various orthodontic centers. A structured, self-administered, and close-ended online questionnaire was provided to the orthodontic patients and their attitudes and actions regarding performance of several home and professional preventive measures during active orthodontic treatment were assessed. Descriptive and inferential statistics were applied to the data. All data were analyzed by using SPSS version 21software. Results: Most of patient 85.1% reported that their orthodontist never recommended them to brush their teeth once weekly with high concentrated fluoride gel (Elmex gel). 69.3% were not referred for routine dental examination, 76.2% of patient reported they didn’t receive any recommendation about the fluoride concentration in their toothpaste. Conclusion: The study showed patient’s awareness is inadequate for maintenance of several home and professional preventive measures during active orthodontic treatment in Riyadh Region.