Effects of Active Reminders and Motivational Techniques on Oral Hygiene and Gingival Health in Orthodontic Patients

Effects of Active Reminders and Motivational Techniques on Oral Hygiene and Gingival Health in Orthodontic Patients: a Randomized Clinical Trial

This study will compare the use of text message reminders versus multiple in-person sessions of oral hygiene instructions and motivation on improving oral hygiene measurements.

Orthodontic treatment (i.e. braces) makes it hard to keep good oral hygiene. The purpose of this research study is to compare the use of text message reminders versus multiple in-person sessions of oral hygiene instructions and motivation on improving oral hygiene measurements. Participation in this study will last up to 6 months and will consist of 4 study visits to the VCU Orthodontic clinic which are also regular visits for treatment. Measurements to assess participant's oral health will be taken during these visits. Participants will be randomly assigned to 1 of 4 groups which may include receiving different types of text messages, repeated in-person oral hygiene instructions, or both, or neither.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age 11-20 that have their own mobile device
2. Patients have cellular plan that allows them to receive text messages at no extra cost
3. Patients that will undergo treatment with full fixed appliances

Exclusion Criteria:

1. patients with significant medical or dental history, including patients with bleeding disorders that would require antibiotic prophylaxis
2. Pregnant women