Abstract
Despite the use of methods and means of gingivitis and caries prevention in orthodontic patients, the problems of prevention of negative changes in the organs and tissues of the mouth remain relevant. Numerous studies have shown that orthodontic treatment of dental and maxillofacial abnormalities with removable and fixed appliances disrupts oral hygiene, increases the incidence of tooth decay, and causes periodontal tissue diseases. Objective. To study the attitude of children and adolescents aged 10 to 18 undergoing treatment with braces to oral care and to assess the quality of hygiene during orthodontic treatment. Materials and methods. Orthodontic treatment was performed in 20 children and adolescents aged 10 to 18 years using metal ligature bracket systems. The patients were divided into two age groups to assess their motivation for oral hygiene maintenance. Before treatment, all participants received oral hygiene instruction, including the proper use of special orthodontic toothbrushes, interdental brushes, and therapeutic-preventive toothpaste. A dental plaque-disclosing solution was used to evaluate the quality of tooth brushing, and regular preventive measures as well as professional oral hygiene procedures were carried out. Oral hygiene status, periodontal tissue condition, and caries intensity were assessed monthly using the Green-Vermillion, PMA, and DMFT indices. The collected data were statistically analyzed to evaluate the effectiveness of the implemented preventive measures. Results. After the placement of fixed orthodontic appliances, the oral hygiene status of children aged 10-12 years deteriorated due to insufficient adherence to oral hygiene recommendations. Patients in this age group demonstrated increased dental plaque accumulation and greater severity of gingival inflammation, which persisted throughout the observation period. In contrast, adolescents aged 13-18 years showed a more responsible attitude toward oral hygiene, resulting in improved oral hygiene index scores and a reduction in signs of periodontal inflammation. Discussion. The findings indicate that the deterioration of oral hygiene during fixed orthodontic treatment is not determined only by the presence of bracket systems, but also by age-related motivation and adherence to recommended oral care. Therefore, preventive work should be differentiated by age and should include repeated instruction, plaque visualization, parental supervision in younger children, and regular professional monitoring. Conclusion. The effectiveness of preventive measures in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment largely depends on age and the level of motivation to maintain oral hygiene. Younger patients are at a higher risk of poor oral hygiene and inflammatory changes, making active parental involvement in monitoring oral care practices essential. An age-adapted approach contributes to improved oral hygiene and reduces the risk of dental caries and periodontal inflammation during orthodontic treatment.