Assessment of Gingival Inflammation in Patients using Clear Aligners vs. Fixed Appliances: A Prospective Study

Objective: This prospective study aimed to assess and compare the degree of gingival inflammation in orthodontic patients undergoing treatment with clear aligners versus those using conventional fixed appliances. Methods: A total of 50 patients undergoing orthodontic treatment were enrolled and divided into two groups: Clear Aligner group (n = 25) and Fixed Appliance group (n = 25). Clinical periodontal parameters—Gingival Index (GI), Plaque Index (PI), probing depth (PD), and bleeding on probing (BOP)—were assessed at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months. All subjects received standardized oral hygiene instructions. Data were statistically analyzed to determine intra-group and inter-group differences.