Comparison of the Effectiveness of Miswak and Manual Toothbrush in Removing Dental Plaque in Fixed Orthodontic Patients
Comparison of the Effectiveness of Miswak and Manual Toothbrush in Removing Dental Plaque in Fixed Orthodontic Patients: A Randomized Split-Mouth Clinical Trial
Al-Hawash Private University
90 participants
May 1, 2026
INTERVENTIONAL
Conditions
Summary
This study compares the immediate plaque removal efficacy of the natural Miswak versus a traditional manual toothbrush using the Modified Bass technique among orthodontic patients. The main question it aims to answer is: Are there statistically significant differences in the post-brushing plaque index reduction between the dental arch side cleaned with Miswak and the contralateral side cleaned with a manual toothbrush?
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria3
- Patients aged between 18 and 30 years old.
- Presence of fixed orthodontic appliances (brackets and wires) on both upper and lower arches.
- Good general systemic health with the absence of any medical conditions that might affect oral health status.
Exclusion Criteria5
- Presence of advanced or aggressive periodontal diseases.
- Current smokers.
- Use of antimicrobial or antibacterial mouthwashes within 24 hours prior to the study session.
- Systemic antibiotic intake within the past 2 weeks preceding the experiment.
- Any physical or motor disability that could hinder the patient's capacity to perform proper tooth brushing.
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Interventions
* Preparation: 1-2 cm of outer bark removed, soaked in water for 10-15 mins, and fibers frayed. * Technique: Vertical strokes (gum to tooth), horizontal on occlusal, focusing around brackets. * Duration: 3 to 5 minutes.
* Technique: Modified Bass Technique (bristles at 45-degree angle to gingival margin, short vibratory movements) modified to brush above and below orthodontic brackets. * Duration: 3 to 5 minutes.
Locations(1)
View Full Details on ClinicalTrials.gov
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NCT07619014