J Eichenauer1, C Serbesis, S Ruf. 1. Department of Orthodontics, Medical Center for Dental and Oral Medicine, Justus Liebig University, Gießen, Germany. johanna.eichenauer@dentist.med.uni-giessen.de
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: The aim of this survey was to analyze the recommendations commonly followed in Germany for cleaning removable orthodontic appliances (ROAs) and to compare these with published procedures. METHODS: A total of 450 randomly-selected orthodontists were contacted by telephone and asked for their recommendations for cleaning ROA. RESULTS: The most frequent recommendation was mechanical cleaning with a toothbrush (99.8%). Chemical detergents (37.1%) and treatment with diluted vinegar or citric acid (30.5%) were mentioned less often. CONCLUSION: The use of cleaning solutions was recommended comparatively infrequently, even though the scientific literature suggests that this is the most hygienic way to care for ROA.
OBJECTIVE: The aim of this survey was to analyze the recommendations commonly followed in Germany for cleaning removable orthodontic appliances (ROAs) and to compare these with published procedures. METHODS: A total of 450 randomly-selected orthodontists were contacted by telephone and asked for their recommendations for cleaning ROA. RESULTS: The most frequent recommendation was mechanical cleaning with a toothbrush (99.8%). Chemical detergents (37.1%) and treatment with diluted vinegar or citric acid (30.5%) were mentioned less often. CONCLUSION: The use of cleaning solutions was recommended comparatively infrequently, even though the scientific literature suggests that this is the most hygienic way to care for ROA.