Introduction of a New Plaque Index Designed for Control and Motivation of Orthodontic Patients

Fixed orthodontic appliances introduce mechanical plaque traps and difficulties to perform oral hygiene properly due to the bracket and wire appliance. For motivation and improvement of oral hygiene in orthodontic patients, plaque indices are often applied. The commonly used indices are designed for the use in teeth without orthodontic appliances. However, in orthodontic patients typical carious lesions and plaque accumulation are seen in areas adjacent to brackets. This aspect is not adequately considered in common plaque indices. The present article describes a new plaque index especially for patients with fixed orthodontic appliances.