Orthodontic Appliances, Removable

After completion of orthodontic treatment, a retention phase is required to prevent relapse of tooth malposition. Fixed retention in the mandibular anterior region is commonly used. This type of retainer is bonded to the lingual surfaces of the canines and incisors and may hinder oral hygiene, thereby promoting bacterial plaque accumulation and gingival inflammation. Currently, probably due to the increasing use of clear aligner therapy, clear removable Essix-type retainers are becoming more widely used. Since these retainers can be removed by the patient, they may facilitate oral hygiene. However, studies assessing gingival health and the composition of the subgingival microbiota in patients wearing orthodontic retainers remain scarce. Therefore, the aim of this study will be to assess the composition of the gingival sulcus microbiota and gingival health in patients wearing fixed or removable orthodontic retainers. Ten adult patients who have completed orthodontic treatment will be recruited and divided into two groups: 1. Fixed retention group. 2. Removable retention group. Periodontal parameters will be assessed, and bacterial plaque samples will be collected from the gingival sulcus at five time points: T0: Bracket removal and dental scaling appointment. Periodontal parameters will be assessed, and plaque samples will be collected before bracket debonding and dental scaling. T1: Retainer placement appointment, three days after T0. Periodontal parameters will be assessed, and plaque samples will be collected before retainer placement. T2: One month after retainer placement. T3: Three months after retainer placement. T4: Six months after retainer placement.

The Twin Block appliance is a removable orthodontic appliance that is used to help correct a backward positioned lower jaw in growing children. This appliance works by guiding the lower jaw forward to a specific position over a certain period of time. After completing the treatment, patients often experience improvements in their appearance, such as an improved bite, a more balanced facial profile and improved lip posture. The investigators' interest is to compare two types of Twin Block appliances; traditional (conventional) and 3D-printed, by examining several factors, including the amount of bacteria that stick to them, the surface roughness, and the overall effectiveness of each type. Surface roughness refers to the texture of the appliance's surface, which could influence how much bacteria can accumulate. Rougher surfaces may trap more bacteria, potentially leading to oral health issues such as bad breath, tooth decay, and gum problems. The study will also assess the effectiveness of both the conventional and 3D-printed Twin Block appliances, focusing on factors like how well they perform in improving jaw position and achieving the desired treatment outcomes. Additionally, the investigators want to assess how these appliances affect the quality of life related to oral health. Participants will answer questions about their experience to help understand how the type of appliance impacts their daily lives, comfort, and overall well-being during the course of treatment.