The use of QLF-D as an oral hygiene evaluation tool in orthodontics.
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The use of QLF-D (Quantitative Light-induced Fluorescence-DigitalTM) as an oral hygiene evaluation tool to assess plaque accumulation and enamel demineralisation in orthodontics
IRAS ID
171796
Contact name
Norah Flannigan
Contact email
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 2 months, 30 days
Research summary
During orthodontic treatment bacterial plaque readily accumulates on the teeth. This is because food easily accumulates around the braces and it is more difficult to clean when the braces are in place. The plaque accumulation
can lead to demineralisation (white spots) developing on the teeth. This is the start of decay and can lead to permanent marks and fillings being required.Prior to the start of orthodontic treatment adequate oral hygiene is necessary.
During orthodontic treatment, it is important that patients have an excellent level of oral hygiene to prevent plaque accumulating and demineralisation occurring. However, adequate tooth brushing can be difficult to perform as the
bacterial plaque is not easily visible. Thus patients may not be able to see which areas need better tooth brushing.
QLFD is a noninvasive method that uses fluorescent light to illuminate the oral bacteria in plaque that are responsible for demineralisation. The purpose of this study is to use the QLFD camera to assess its ability to measure plaque
accumulation and demineralisation before the start of orthodontic treatment. The study will also assess the QLFD camera as a tool to improve oral hygiene.REC name
North West - Liverpool Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
15/NW/0427
Date of REC Opinion
24 Jun 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion