Comparison Between Occlusal Versus Apical Bent Wires in Patients on Erich Arch Bar

Comparison Between Occlusal Versus Apical Bent Wires in Patients on Erich Arch Bar: A Prospective Split-mouth Randomized Clinical Trial

Patients with jaw fractures requires placement of Erich arch bar for immobilization of the fractured jaw. However, the usage of Erich arch bar is associated with an increased in the incidence of mucosal trauma and plaque accumulation. Conventionally, the ends of the wires has always been placed apical to the teeth.

This study aims to determine if a change in the placement of the wire by directing it to the occlusal direction will reduce the incidence of mucosal trauma, plaque accumulation and if the stability of the Erich arch bar will be affected by this intervention.

The patients' teeth will be divided into left and right side and randomized into control side (wires end apically) and interventional side (wires end occlusally)

Inclusion Criteria:

• 18 years - 60 years old.
• Full Glasgow coma scale.
• Facial fractures requiring Erich arch bar for 4 weeks duration
• No functional deficit that will prevent tooth brushing.

Exclusion Criteria:

• All pathologic fractures due to cysts, tumors, and cancers
• Medical conditions that contraindicate the usage of arch bars (Epilepsy, Asthmatics)