Comparison of Gum Health and Bacterial Changes in Adults Using Fixed Versus Removable Orthodontic Retainers After Braces

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to compare gum health and the bacteria found in the gum pockets of adults who use fixed versus removable orthodontic retainers after completing braces. The study focuses on understanding how these two types of retainers affect the mouths bacterial environment and periodontal health over time. Ten adult patients who finished orthodontic treatment will be divided into two groups one wearing fixed lingual retainers bonded to the lower front teeth, and the other wearing clear removable Essix-type retainers. Participants in the fixed retainer group will have a bonded wire attached from the left to the right canine on the lower jaw, while those in the removable retainer group will receive clear retainers to wear for 22 hours daily. Both groups will follow the same oral hygiene instructions and use an oral hygiene kit to keep cleaning consistent. Clinical assessments and plaque samples will be collected at five key visits starting from debonding day to six months after retainer placement to monitor changes in gum health and bacterial composition. During the study, participants will undergo examinations measuring plaque buildup, gum bleeding, pocket depth, attachment level, and gum recession. Bacterial plaque samples will be collected carefully from specific lower front teeth surfaces and stored for advanced genetic analysis using 16S rRNA sequencing. This will help researchers track changes in the bacterial community and gum health over six months. Participants will be asked to avoid eating, drinking, or oral hygiene activities for at least two hours before sampling visits to ensure accurate measurements.

Bacterial Diversity Study Using 16S rRNA Sequencing of Periodontal Samples From Patients With Orthodontic Retainers