Microbiological analysis of gingivitis in pediatric patients under orthodontic treatment

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ABSTRACT

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between gingival inflammation and changes in
bacteria of the gingival sulcus in children in orthodontic treatment with brackets.

Methods

Study design:
this prospective study assessed gingival and plaque index of two groups: children with brackets (Group 1) and without
brackets (Group 2). The sample was selected from patients treated at the Faculty of Dentistry, Complutense University of
Madrid, Spain. Microbiological assessment was performed in every child and all data were statistically analysed.

Results

Group 1 showed significantly higher microbiological values and the difference was greater in lower teeth. Comparing the
total plaque percentage, it was significantly higher in Group 1. Statistics: there was no significant correlation between
gingival and plaque indexes in any group. No significant correlation was found between plaque index and bacteria.

Conclusion

Children using brackets showed significantly higher gingival and plaque indices than children without
brackets. No direct relationship was found between the increase in gingival and plaque indices and the presence and
quantity of bacteria; therefore it was not possible to identify specific bacteria as responsible for the high gingival index in
patients with brackets. Keywords: Crevicular fluid; Gingivitis; Gingival index;

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