Actively Recruiting
Comparison of the Effectiveness of Miswak and Manual Toothbrush in Removing Dental Plaque in Fixed Orthodontic Patients: A Randomized Split-Mouth Clinical Trial
Led by Al-Hawash Private University · Updated on 2026-06-03
90
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
8 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Researchers are evaluating the immediate plaque removal effectiveness of the natural Miswak compared to a traditional manual toothbrush using the Modified Bass technique in patients with fixed orthodontic appliances. The study aims to determine if there is a significant difference in plaque reduction between the side cleaned with Miswak and the side cleaned with a manual toothbrush. This randomized split-mouth clinical trial addresses the challenge of maintaining oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment, where brackets and wires can trap dental biofilm. Participants will have half of their mouth cleaned with the natural Miswak, prepared by removing outer bark and soaking before use, applying vertical and horizontal strokes for 3 to 5 minutes. The other half will be cleaned with a conventional manual toothbrush using the Modified Bass technique, also for 3 to 5 minutes. This single clinical session uses a split-mouth design to minimize variability by having each participant serve as their own control. During the study visit, dental plaque will be assessed using the Modified Quigley-Hein Plaque Index immediately before and after brushing. The study involves no follow-up beyond this session. Participants will be monitored for proper brushing technique and plaque reduction to compare the immediate efficacy of both oral hygiene tools in orthodontic patients. The total participation is limited to this single visit.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Comparison of the Effectiveness of Miswak and Manual Toothbrush in Removing Dental Plaque in Fixed Orthodontic Patients
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Patients aged between 18 and 30 years old.
- Presence of fixed orthodontic appliances on both upper and lower teeth.
- Good general health without medical conditions affecting oral health.
You will not qualify if you...
- Presence of advanced or aggressive periodontal diseases.
- Current smokers.
- Use of antimicrobial or antibacterial mouthwashes within 24 hours before the study.
- Systemic antibiotic use within 2 weeks before the study.
- Any physical or motor disability that affects the ability to brush teeth properly.
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - Single clinical session
Participants receive a single clinical session where one half of their mouth is cleaned using the natural Miswak and the other half using a manual toothbrush to compare their effectiveness in removing dental plaque.
1 visit (in-person)
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
Al-Hawash Private University, Faculty of Dentistry
Homs, Syria
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
A
Ali Abu Sulaiman, Ph.D. in Periodontology
F
Fida Kaseeh, Ph.D. in Oral Medicine
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
SINGLE
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Model
FACTORIAL
Primary Purpose
SUPPORTIVE_CARE
Number of Arms
2
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