Cleaning Methods and Materials for Removable Orthodontic Appliances: A Questionnaire Study

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the recommendations of orthodontists practicing in Turkey to their patients regarding the cleaning of removable orthodontic appliances (ROAs) and to analyse whether their advice was promoted by the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. A questionnaire link was sent via an e-mail to 1018 members of the Turkish Orthodontic Society, including an informative letter about the study. A total of 133 orthodontists answered the questionnaire acceptably. Almost all participants of this study recommended their patients to brush ROAs (94.7%). A majority of orthodontists advised to use a cleaning agent besides brushing. Patients were advised to brush generally two or three times a day and use the cleaning agent less often. A total of 77.4% of the participants stated that the COVID-19 pandemic did not change their recommendations regarding the cleaning of ROAs. A prevalent cleaning method advised by respondents was brushing. Taking into consideration the COVID-19 pandemic, orthodontists in Turkey had better increase prescription of a chemical cleaning agent for ROAs.