Influence of Fixed Orthodontic Treatment on Oral Microbial Changes and Periodontal Status

Abstract Background: There have been conflicting reports on the benefits of fixed orthodontic treatment on crowded dentition in the outcome of periodontal status. This study aims to compare and evaluate the salivary microbial levels and periodontal status in patients with crowded dentition undergoing fixed orthodontic therapy. Materials and Methods: The study included 10 patients scheduled for fixed orthodontic therapy; all were bonded with metallic orthodontic brackets, bands, and auxiliaries and were also given similar oral hygiene maintenance instructions. Periodontal status was assessed by plaque index, gingival index, and probing pocket depth, and salivary samples were analyzed for total bacterial count and Streptococcus mutans count, before placement of the appliance and 6 months after initial leveling and alignment phase of fixed appliance therapy. Results: The mean total salivary microbial and S. mutans levels decreased from 330.31 × 10 5 colony-forming units (CFU)/mL and 35.90 × 10 5 CFU/mL to 168.60 × 10 5 CFU/mL and 11.10 × 10 5 CFU/mL, respectively, which was statistically significant ( P 0.05). Conclusions: The initial leveling and alignment of the crowded dentition decreased the salivary microbial levels and S. mutans levels. The gingival index remained the same, with a mild increase in plaque index and probing pocket depth after initial orthodontic alignment.