Objective: The hypothesis of this study was that toothpaste slurry rinsing – combined with some other simple post-brushing advices - would reduce the number of decayed and filled tooth surfaces (DFS) in orthodontic patients.
Methods: 110 adolescent orthodontic patients at a private clinic in Saudi Arabia were randomly divided into two groups (55 test vs. 55 control). Clinical examination was carried out and bitewing radiographs taken before the orthodontic treatment and after two years at de-bonding to calculate the number of new DFS. The test group was instructed to use standard fluoride toothpaste throughout the 2-year treatment period. They were asked to brush three times a day for two minutes, to rinse with the toothpaste slurry for 30 seconds, to avoid post-brushing water rinsing and drinking or eating two hours after brushing. The control group was instructed to follow their normal oral hygiene procedures using fluoride toothpaste.
Results: Before the orthodontic treatment, both groups had the same mean age and no difference in their DFS index. At de-bonding, the test group showed significantly lower number of new DFS.
Conclusion: The use of a post-brushing toothpaste slurry rinsing technique - and to avoid water rinsing, drinking or eating after brushing - is an effective and simple method to reduce new caries lesions, which might develop during the orthodontic treatment.