This randomized controlled clinical trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of individualized oral hygiene education using the Individually Trained Oral Prophylaxis (iTOP) method compared with conventional oral hygiene instruction using model demonstration and video-based education in orthodontic patients diagnosed with gingivitis.

Sixty orthodontic patients underwent professional mechanical plaque removal and received oral hygiene instruction using calibrated interdental brushes. Participants were randomly assigned to either the iTOP training group or the conventional education group.

Clinical outcomes including Approximal Plaque Index (API), Gingival Index (GI), and Full Mouth Bleeding Score (FMBS) were assessed at baseline and after three months to determine the effectiveness of the educational interventions on plaque control and gingival health.

Orthodontic patients with fixed appliances are at increased risk for plaque accumulation and gingival inflammation due to the presence of plaque-retentive surfaces created by orthodontic brackets and wires. Effective oral hygiene education is therefore essential to maintain periodontal health during orthodontic treatment.

Traditional oral hygiene education methods, such as model demonstration and video instruction, provide general guidance but often lack individualized feedback and psychomotor skill training.

The Individually Trained Oral Prophylaxis (iTOP) method introduces a personalized hands-on approach using the "Touch-to-Teach" concept, where clinicians guide the patient's hand to demonstrate correct interdental cleaning techniques using calibrated interdental brushes.

This study compares the effectiveness of the iTOP method with conventional oral hygiene instruction in orthodontic patients diagnosed with gingivitis. The primary outcome measure is the change in the Approximal Plaque Index (API), while secondary outcomes include the Gingival Index (GI) and Full Mouth Bleeding Score (FMBS). These parameters are assessed at baseline and after a three-month follow-up period to determine improvements in plaque control and gingival health.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Adults aged 18 years or older
2. Patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment
3. Diagnosis of biofilm-induced gingivitis
4. Presence of interdental spaces suitable for calibrated interdental brush use
5. Ability and willingness to perform oral hygiene procedures and attend follow-up visits
6. Provision of written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Presence of systemic diseases affecting gingival health (e.g., uncontrolled diabetes)
2. Use of medications known to influence gingival conditions (e.g., phenytoin, cyclosporine, calcium channel blockers)
3. History of chemotherapy or radiotherapy in the head and neck region
4. Current smokers
5. Pregnant or lactating women
6. Patients with physical or cognitive disabilities affecting oral hygiene performance
7. Use of additional professional oral hygiene interventions or antimicrobial mouth rinses during the study period