Effects of Systematic Oral Hygiene Guidance on Plaque Control Among Periodontal Patients

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of systematic oral hygiene instruction in improving oral hygiene knowledge and to practice and control oral plaque, among periodontal patients. Methods: A total of 407 patients were recruited, with 205 in the experimental group and 202 in the control group. Participants in the experimental group received professional dental examination, cleaning tools and instruction of oral hygiene practices. The patients in the control group received conventional educational guidance. Two follow-ups with 7–10-day intervals were conducted after the baseline examination. Results: Compared to those in control group, the plaque index of participants in the experimental group was significantly improved after the intervention. Moreover, participants' behaviours, including brushing twice or more a day, brushing more than 2 min, skill in using dental floss and brushing before going to bed, significantly improved after receiving professional systematic oral hygiene guidance (p < 0.001). Significant improvement was achieved in patients' oral hygiene knowledge, attitudes and practices (p < 0.001). Overall, 26.8% of the participants reached standard oral plaque control (plaque index ≤ 20%) in experimental group. Multivariable analysis showed that participants' old age and severity of illness had significant effects on plaque control. Conclusion: Professional educational guidance is effective in maintaining good oral hygiene practices following periodontal management compare with conventional education. Oral health promotion interventions should be adjusted by age, severity of disease and the distal portion of the oral cavity.