Abstract
Objective
To compare the duration of orthodontic treatment and Gingival Index (GI) scores in Class I malocclusion patients treated with a conventional straight-wire method (CG) or the Damon technique (DT).
Design
Two-arm, parallel, randomised clinical trial
Setting
A postgraduate orthodontic clinic
Participants
Patients with a balanced facial profile, a full permanent dentition and Angle's Class I malocclusion with moderate crowding.
Methods
The primary outcome was the duration of orthodontic treatment in months. GI scores throughout treatment were secondary outcomes and the PAR index was also assessed. Randomisation was accomplished using a table of random numbers and the allocation was concealed in sequentially numbered and opened, opaque, sealed envelopes. Blinding was applicable for PAR assessment only. Comparison of data between groups was performed with appropriate tests for independent samples.
Results
Twenty-two patients were randomly allocated to treatment in a 1:1 ratio to either CG or DT group. Age at the start of treatment, initial PAR index and GI scores were similar between groups. All patients completed the study, but the total duration of orthodontic treatment was almost half of the initial assumption. No statistically significant differences were observed in treatment duration (CG: Mean (
Conclusions
The present study did not reveal statistically significant differences between the compared, conventional straight-wire method and Damon technique-treated, Angle's Class I malocclusion groups regarding total treatment duration and GI scores.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.