Clinical Research Directory

Access to Hygiene in Patients With Dental Implants Using Two Toothbrushes

Peri-implant mucositis is a reversible inflammatory condition primarily caused by biofilm accumulation around dental implants. Effective plaque control is essential for disease resolution; however, the influence of toothbrush bristle design on plaque removal around implant-supported prostheses remains unclear. Polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) tapered-end bristles are more flexible than conventional medium-textured bristles and may improve access to peri-implant areas while increasing patient comfort. This study aims to compare the effectiveness of a PBT tapered-end toothbrush and a medium-textured toothbrush in plaque removal, peri-implant bacterial load reduction, and patient-reported outcomes in individuals with peri-implant mucositis. Each participant will use both toothbrushes in a randomized sequence separated by a six-week washout period. Visible plaque will be disclosed and quantified using standardized photographic analysis based on the Rustogi Modified Navy Plaque Index. Absolute and relative peri-implant bacterial loads of Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum, together with total bacterial load, will be quantified by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Patient satisfaction, including perceived discomfort, comfort, ease of handling and intention to use, will be assessed using visual analogue scales.

Labial White Spot Lesions and Proximal Caries Development in Orthodontic Patients Using Clear Aligners Versus Traditional Braces.

This randomized clinical trial evaluates the risk of developing early tooth decay in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment with either traditional fixed braces or clear aligners. Because orthodontic appliances can trap plaque and make tooth cleaning difficult, patients are at a higher risk for developing early decay, such as chalky "white spot lesions" on the visible surfaces of the teeth and hidden decay between the teeth (proximal caries). In this six-month study, 24 participants are randomly assigned to receive either fixed braces or clear aligners. Researchers will monitor the participants' oral health prior to treatment, at 3 months, and at 6 months. To safely and accurately detect decay, the study uses standard visual examinations for the front of the teeth and a radiation-free optical scanner (Near-Infrared Imaging, or NIRI) to detect hidden cavities between the teeth. The primary goal of this study is to compare how many new white spot lesions and hidden cavities between teeth develop in each group over the six-month observation period. Additionally, the study tracks how these early lesions behave over time, monitors changes in the patients' daily oral hygiene, and records how often patients in each group require professional dental cleaning procedures. Ultimately, this study aims to help patients and dental professionals make better-informed decisions regarding the specific cavity risks associated with each type of orthodontic appliance.

Evaluating Plaque Removal in Adolescents Using Bamboo and Conventional Plastic Toothbrushes

evaluation of bamboo and conventional toothbrushes in plaque removal