Braces and bacteria: new study looks at how orthodontic appliances change mouth microbes
NCT ID NCT05532241
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study looks at how metal and ceramic braces change the bacteria in dental plaque (biofilm) and affect gum health in 80 people with crooked teeth. Researchers will measure the types and amounts of bacteria, plaque buildup, and gum swelling. The goal is to understand how different braces influence oral infections and how well standard cleaning methods work.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only, not medical advice or a prediction.
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this study could help dentists better manage gum health and infections in people wearing braces.
- What could go wrong
- This is an observational study focused on understanding biofilm changes, not testing a new treatment. Results may not lead to immediate clinical changes.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Study facts
What this study's own registry entry says, in plain language.
- Phase
-
Phase 3
Large-scale testing in a bigger group. Usually the last step before a treatment can be approved.
- Participants
-
About 80 people
The number the study aims to enrol. It can still change while the study runs.
- Started
-
Nov 2021
- Expected to finish
-
Jun 2026
An estimate. End dates often move.
- Lead sponsor
-
Other sponsor
The registry's catch-all category, for sponsors it does not file as a company, a government agency, or a research network.
Who can take part
This study's own entry requirements. Only the study team can say for certain whether you qualify.
- Ages
-
13 to 18 years
- Sex
-
Anyone
- Healthy volunteers
-
Accepted
You do not need to have the condition being studied to take part.
Show the full entry requirements Hide the full entry requirements
Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
Inclusion Criteria: * malocclusion with moderate or great need for orthodontic treatment (Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need grades \>=3) Exclusion Criteria: * neurodevelopmental disorders * intellectual disability * oligodontia * congenital craniofacial anomalies * orofacial clefts
Get updates
Get notified about this study
Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for Gingivitis are added.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
University of Rijeka Faculty of Dental Medicine
Rijeka, 51000, Croatia
-
University of Rijeka, Faculty od Dental Medicine, Dental Clinic
Rijeka, 51000, Croatia
-
University of Rijeka, Faculty of Dental Medicine
Rijeka, 51000, Croatia
More trials for these conditions
Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
- Hidden braces aim to straighten tilted back molars
- Seeing your gums in 3D: can personalized images spark better brushing?
- Can clear aligners match braces for crowded lower teeth?
- Gum fluid holds clues to Behçet's disease puzzle
- Can a special toothpaste tame gum disease?
- Could a toothbrush and mouthwash cut pneumonia in the elderly?