FEATURES OF ORAL HYGIENE IN CHILDREN WITH CHROMOGENIC DENTAL PLAQUE

Abstract

Chromogenic dental plaque in the pediatric population is a common aesthetic and hygienic challenge that significantly affects the quality of life and self-esteem of children and their parents. Traditional approaches to oral hygiene in children include regular tooth brushing and the use of basic care products. However, for the effective control of chromogenic plaque, there is a growing interest in additional products, in particular products with lactoferrin. The aim of the study was to study the effectiveness of lactoferrin lollipops in the management of patients with chromogenic plaque. Materials and Methods. Examination and observation of 28 children aged 6–12 years, Poltava city were conducted. Of these, 10 children (first group) were prescribed: toothpaste with lactoperoxidase twice a day, toothbrush, floss and single-tuft toothbrush as an additional hygiene item, after the main cleaning. For children of the second group (8 children) the recommendations were the same, but additionally tablets for resorption with lactoferrin were prescribed: 1 tablet 2 times a day for 12 days. Results. The oral hygiene status of all children at the beginning of the observation was determined as “poor” (hygienic index according to O’Leary (Plaque Control Record, PCR): the first group 85.8 %, the second group 90 % (p > 0.05). During the second examination, which was carried out 2 months later, the hygienic index was determined in both groups. In children of the first group the index was 71.6 %, in the second group 60.6 %. Analysis of the hygiene index between examinations in the observation groups showed a significant improvement in the numerical index in both groups. Conclusion. The use of the proposed personal hygiene complex, containing additional products with lactoferrin, demonstrates its positive effect on reducing the rate of chromogenic plaque formation in children.