The Use of Quantitative Light Induced Fluorescence Digital as an Oral Hygiene Evaluation Tool in Orthodontics

During orthodontic treatment bacterial plaque readily accumulates on the teeth. This is because food easily accumulates around the braces and it is more difficult to clean when the braces are in place. The plaque accumulation can lead to demineralisation (white spots) developing on the teeth. This is the start of decay and can lead to permanent marks and fillings being required.Prior to the start of orthodontic treatment adequate oral hygiene is necessary. During orthodontic treatment, it is important that patients have an excellent level of oral hygiene to prevent plaque accumulating and demineralisation occurring. However, adequate tooth brushing can be difficult to perform as the bacterial plaque is not easily visible. Thus patients may not be able to see which areas need better tooth brushing. QLFD(Quantitative Light Induced Fluorescence Digital) is a noninvasive method that uses fluorescent light to illuminate the oral bacteria in plaque that are responsible for demineralisation. The purpose of this study is to use the QLFD camera to assess its ability to measure plaque accumulation and demineralisation before the start of orthodontic treatment. The study will also assess the QLFD camera as a tool to improve oral hygiene.