How are children and adolescents cleaning their orthodontic appliances? A cross-sectional study in private schools

AIM: To determine the prevalence and the hygiene methods used by 6-16-year-old private school children and adolescents to clean removable orthodontic appliances (ROA) in the city of Pelotas, RS, Brazil. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in private schools located in the urban area after the school tutors signed an informed consent form. Questionnaires were applied to children using removable orthodontic appliances. Data regarding hygiene methods of orthodontic appliances were collected. Descriptive analysis was performed. Pearson's chi-square test and Linear Trend with a con...