ABSTRACT
The purpose of this paper was to evaluate the effectiveness of a supervision program for motivation and instruction of hygiene buccal in respect of the control of plaque and marginal gingivitis in children with seven to twelve years old, undergoing removable or fixed orthodontic appliance therapy. These patients were divided into two groups. The experimental group was of thirty-eight children who were individually instructed for the hygiene method. They were analysed and instructed periodically. The twenty-five children of the control group were instructed for a correct brushing; however no attempt was done to change their habits. They also have been periodically evaluated. The evaluation of de buccal health conditions was measured in a period of eight months by means of plaque and marginal pappilar gingivitis index. Is was verified a reduction in the plaque and gingivitis index, in the experimental group of 100% and 88.6%, respectively. The control group has showed a reduction of 74.6% and 78.9%, respectively. The control of plaque and gingivitis was more efficient in the patients who were periodically instructed and motivated, with a difference statistically significant, from the third week. These data helped to demonstrate that the plaque and the periodontal disease can be suitably controlled by the patient even with the use of orthodontic appliances. The instructed and supervisioned brushing technic is more efficient than the habitual brushing in the control of plaque and gingivitis in patients with orthodontic appliance.