Educational methods for implementation of proper oral hygiene behavior prior, during, and after orthodontic therapy...

Periodontitis complicates orthodontic treatment due to compromised periodontal support and heightened susceptibility to inflammation. Effective plaque control is essential before, during, and after orthodontic intervention to maintain periodontal stability and prevent disease recurrence.

This narrative review explores evidence surrounding the importance of oral hygiene instruction (OHI), patient motivation, and behavior change strategies in managing ortho-perio patients.

Evidence suggests that behavior change is complex and knowledge alone is insufficient to maintain long-term self-care without clinician support and patient engagement. Individually tailored OHI, combined with patient-centered communication, can foster sustainable self-care habits. Ortho-perio oral hygiene routines are unique considering periodontal status and evolve alongside changes in orthodontic appliances. Emphasis should consistently be on four critical areas: the gingival margins, interproximal spaces, orthodontic brackets and archwires, and fixed retainers.

Orthodontic treatment in patients with periodontitis is a dynamic process with constant oral environment changes. Ongoing personalized education and behavior change strategies tailored to treatment stage and periodontal risk are essential to support patient self-care and ensure long-term oral health.

A multidisciplinary approach from periodontal and orthodontic clinicians, involving ongoing education, customized hygiene strategies, and behavior support, is critical to achieving optimal treatment outcomes in ortho-perio patients.