To evaluate the gingival inflammation in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment by using ozonated water

Abstract

Background: Gingival inflammation is a common concern in patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment, often attributed to the difficulty in maintaining proper oral hygiene. Ozone therapy has gained attention as a potential adjunctive treatment to improve periodontal health. This study aimed to assess the effect of ozonated water irrigation on gingival inflammation in such patients.

Materials and Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted on 60 patients aged 12 to 25 years who were undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment. They were divided into two groups: Group A (n=30) received daily irrigation with ozonated water, and Group B (n=30) received regular water irrigation as a control. The trial lasted for eight weeks. Gingival inflammation was assessed using the Gingival Index (GI) at baseline, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks. Data were analyzed using appropriate statistical tests.

Results: At baseline, both Group A and Group B had similar Gingival Index scores (mean GI±SD: Group A, 1.75±0.42; Group B, 1.74±0.39). After 4 weeks of treatment, Group A showed a significant reduction in GI (mean GI±SD: 1.12±0.29) compared to Group B (mean GI±SD: 1.64±0.38). This trend continued at 8 weeks, with Group A showing a further decrease in GI (mean GI±SD: 0.91±0.25) compared to Group B (mean GI±SD: 1.58±0.36). The difference in GI scores between the two groups at both time points was statistically significant (p<0.05).

Conclusion: Ozonated water irrigation demonstrated a significant reduction in gingival inflammation in patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment compared to regular water irrigation. This suggests that ozonated water irrigation can be considered as an effective adjunctive therapy to improve periodontal health during orthodontic treatment.