Florence CARROUEL

Leader
Private Funding: €26,000

Adolescence is a high-risk period for dental caries, due to the dysbiosis of the dental microbiome, often caused by neglected oral hygiene and a diet high in carbohydrates and sugary drinks. Adolescents undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment are particularly vulnerable, as dental braces and retainers trap food and promote biofilm accumulation, which can exacerbate gingivitis and caries.

Electric toothbrushes, especially those with oscillating-rotation technology, are considered more effective than manual toothbrushes in reducing plaque and gingivitis, although the efficacy of sonic toothbrushes has not yet been clearly established. Specialised orthodontic toothbrushes, featuring V-shaped bristles arranged in a zigzag pattern, have also been developed to improve cleaning.

The ORTHO-IOP study aims to evaluate the efficacy and acceptability of a new generation of connected sonic electric toothbrushes compared to a standard sonic toothbrush and manual toothbrushes among patients with fixed orthodontic appliances. The goal is to determine which type of toothbrush can better manage gingival inflammation and reduce the risks of caries and gingivitis.