EFFECTS OF ORTHODONTIC ATTACHMENTS ON THE GINGIVAL HEALTH OF PERMANENT 2ND MOLARS

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of cemented bands and enamel bonded attachments on the gingival health of second molars. In 23 patients the right upper and lower second molars were banded, while the left upper and lower second molars were bonded. The plaque index, the gingival index, and pocket depths were greater and statistically significant on the right side, indicative of increased inflammatory activity where bands were cemented. Once the appliances were removed, both areas returned to pretreatment levels.