INTRODUCTION
orthodontic
DEMINERALIZATION, DENTAL PLAQUE, DECAY, PLAQUE
Orthodontic treatment improves both masticatory function and the aspects of facial esthetics through the correct alignment of the teeth (Preoteasa et al., Several changes occur to the oral bacterial flora during fixed orthodontic treatment. Multibracket orthodontic treatment provides additional retentive areas for plaque. In addition, the concentration of acidogenic bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans, and Lactobacillus increased in plaque. Therefore, results in enamel demineralization and the onset of white spots, which is a sign of early decay. White spots form within a month upon the initiation of the orthodontic treatment if oral care is absent. Despite the difficulties in maintaining oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment, it is essential to maintain good oral health to ensure an appropriate quality of life for the patient (Khoroushi & Kachuie, It is believed that removing plaque by means of a toothbrush is an effective way to prevent demineralization in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment. However, it is not clear whether using manual toothbrushes alone is sufficient to remove dental plaque (Marçal et al., 