Are Plaque Disclosing Agents Effective for Improving Self-Performed Dental Hygiene in Patients with Space Maintainers? A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

Objective: In the event of premature loss of primary teeth, the placement of a space maintainer is the safest option for preserving dental arch length; however, the appliances and bands of space maintainers can change the contours of the teeth, causing plaque accumulation and making it difficult to maintain oral hygiene. The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in dental plaque accumulation and the effectiveness of a plaque disclosing agent (PDA) in providing oral hygiene with the use of space maintainers. Methods: Patients were divided into two groups (Group A: intervention; Group B: control) and the study was carried out in four stages. At each stage, pocket depth (PD), gingival index (GI), and plaque index (PI) were measured. Results: There was an increase in PD, GI, and PI after space maintainers were placed. Following oral hygiene education (with and without the use of a PDA), PD, GI, and PI significantly decreased in both groups. Conclusion: PDAs are effective for improving oral hygiene, especially in young children; however, training should be repeated at frequent intervals to maintain good, continuous oral hygiene.