In vivo plaque count of Streptococcus Mutans around orthodontic brackets bonded with two different adhesives

Abstract

Background: The prevention of the enamel demineralization at the periphery of the brackets is a significantchallenge to orthodontic professionals. The aim of this clinical study was to compare the Streptococcus mutantscount in the plaque surrounding two orthodontic adhesive types, Fuji Ortho LC and Enlight (Ormco).Materials and methods: A total of 13 patients (7 males and 6 females) needing fixed orthodontic appliance therapywere participated. A split mouth technique was followed with appliances bonded by two orthodontic adhesivetypes, Fuji Ortho LC and Enlight (Ormco). Saliva was collected before placement of appliances (T0) and again atthree weeks (T1) and six weeks (T2) after placement of appliances. Plaque was collected from areas adjacent tobrackets and buccal tubes at three weeks (T1) and six weeks (T2) after placement of appliances. The numbers(colony-forming units) of Streptococcus mutans were determined with the side-specific modified Strip-Mutans.Results: No significant modification in the number of Streptococcus mutans CFU in saliva was observed at both timeintervals (T1) and (T2) after placement of appliances. The number of Streptococcus mutans CFU in plaque at bothtime intervals (T1) and (T2) was statistically lower in sites adjacent to Fuji Ortho LC than in those adjacent to Enlight(Ormco) adhesive.Conclusion: plaque surround brackets and tubes bonded with Fuji Ortho LC adhesive harbor less Streptococcusmutans and this will aid in prevention of enamel demineralization