Awareness Of Orthodontic Patients To Food Restriction And Oral Hygiene Maintenance

Oral hygiene is very important as there is an increased risk of getting cavities, stains and accumulation of food during orthodontic treatment. Along with oral hygiene education, the patients would also be instructed in their diet pattern. The aim of the study is to determine the awareness of orthodontic patients to food restriction and oral hygiene maintenance. The objective is to understand the importance of diet and oral hygiene maintenance in orthodontic phase. On a sample of 100 orthodontic patients with braces, a questionnaire was given to fill. To assess their knowledge, practice and attitude of the patients towards dietary and oral hygiene instructions. The survey included 10 questions with regards to oral hygiene and food restriction. The result showed that the majority of them were aware of the oral hygiene and food restrictions. Though many of them were aware of orthodontic aids such as interdental brushes, they did not use it. This study helps in understanding how many of the patients are able to understand the significance of the instruction given with regards to oral hygiene and food restrictions and how many of them need to be educated. If the patients are not aware of it, this study would help us, dentists, to educate our patients in a much efficient way in the future to show the importance.