Recent literature indicates that small but significant overall periodontal liability occurs with fixed appliances during orthodontic treatment. However, studies also point out these problems can be overcome almost completely with the use of established preventative dentistry measures employed before, during and after treatment.

At 7 p.m. (EST) on Jan. 21, Dr. Robert L. Boyd, chairman of the Department of Orthodontics at the Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry of the University of the Pacific in San Francisco, will discuss these matters in his OT Study Club Webinar, “Improving Periodontal Health Through Orthodontic Treatment.”

Boyd, who holds degrees in both orthodontics and periodontics, will present a review of currently available oral-health products for orthodontic patients evaluated in light of FDA and ADA approvals for claims. He will use this information and also review the current dental literature to determine what toothpaste, toothbrushes, rinses and other plaque-removal aids have been shown to be the most efficient and effective for orthodontic patients with fixed appliances.

The Webinar, sponsored by Procter & Gamble, will last 60 minutes with a 30-minute question-and-answer session at the end. The course is free, and you can register at www.OTStudyClub.com.

Attendees will earn one C.E. credit. For more information, contact Julia Wehkamp at julia.wehkamp@dtstudyclub.com.