To evaluate the importance of education and motivation in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment-a prospective study

The present study has been undertaken to determine the most appropriate oral hygiene motivation method (OHMM) for maintaining good oral hygiene during fixed appliance orthodontic treatment. Material and Methods- The study group was divided into four groups in accordance to their OHMM such as- GROUP I. Only verbal information (V). GROUP II. Only written information (W). GROUP III. Demonstration on model (M). GROUP IV. Audio Visual Aids and Self application by the patients (AV). Proper hygiene instructions were then provided and clinical examination was performed (baseline,1st ,3rd ,and 6th month). The examination included recording of Plaque Index (PI) for each sample at each examination. Results: At 1st, 3rd , 6 th months group V had the highest mean PI score while the lowest mean PI score was observed in Group AV and the difference between the groups was significant. Conclusion: The preventive, educational and motivational actions undertaken in this study proved statistically effective in improving the oral health of orthodontic patients. The most effective method is demonstration by audiovisual aids.