To investigate Q-Scan device as an adjunct to “at-home“ oral hygiene 2
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The use of the Q-Scan oral hygiene device for plaque identification as part of an “at-home“ oral hygiene routine and to assess its influence on plaque accumulation and enamel demineralisation using the QLF-D™ (Quantitative Light Induced Fluorescence-Digital™) in patients undergoing fixed appliance orthodontic treatment at Liverpool University Dental Hospital.
IRAS ID
210553
Contact name
Norah Flannigan
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Liverpool
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
UoL001233., Sponsorship reference number (University of Liverpool)
Duration of Study in the UK
3 years, 0 months, 0 days
Research summary
When patients are fitted with orthodontic appliances (upper and lower fixed braces) they are more prone to the build up of plaque. Plaque is a well documented causative agent in the formation of dental caries (decay), which initially can appear in the form of white or brown marks (white spot lesions) on the teeth. As they progress these marks change from white to brown and can eventually progress to cavities. Dental plaque can also cause gum disease and even bone loss. It is in both the patients and clinicians best interest to insure plaque control is of a high standard during orthodontic treatment to minimise the risks of unwanted outcomes. \nThis study is designed to investigate if the use of a hand held device at-home (known as Q-Scan) can help people (11 years or older) with braces clean their teeth. It uses a special light to allow plaque to be seen in red making it easily identifiable. The patients in one group will be asked to use this device after they have brushed their teeth twice daily at home, to make sure they have removed all of the plaque. The control group will not receive a device. Both groups will receive the usual written and verbal oral hygiene advice for orthodontic patients and will have their teeth photographed using a special plaque identifying camera (QLF-D) before the braces are fitted, the first 3 brace adjustments and the day the braces are removed. If oral hygiene needs to be improved, advice will be given to people in both groups as required. The study will not require participants to attend any extra appointments. The aim is to see if there is any difference in the plaque levels between those who use the device, and those who do not. \n
REC name
North West - Liverpool Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/NW/0695
Date of REC Opinion
8 Feb 2017
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion