Background: Orthodontic treatment ensures proper alignment of the teeth and improves the occlusal and jaw relationship. Hence; the present study was undertaken for assessing the effect of fixed orthodontic treatment on gingival health. Materials & methods: A total of 200 patients who were scheduled orthodontic treatment were enrolled. Complete data records of all the patients were recorded. Intra-oral and extra-oral radiographs were obtained and photographic records were noted in separate Performa. Complete intra-oral examination of all the subjects was carried out for recording visible plaque, any inflammation (visible clinically) and gingival recession. Follow-up records were assessed. Analysis of all the results was done by SPSS software. Results: A total of 200 patients were enrolled. Out of 200 patients, dental extractions were carried in 100 patients while the remaining 100 cases were treated without dental extractions. Mean age of the patients with and without dental extractions was 16.3 years and 15.4 years respectively. Visible plaque value before and after treatment was 3.26 and 5.28 respectively. Visible inflammation scores before and after treatment was 2.31 and 14.15 respectively. Gingival recession score before and after treatment was 0.29 and 0.41 respectively. Significant results were obtained while comparing the plaque, inflammation and gingival recession scores before and after treatment. Conclusion: From the above results, the authors concluded that significant increase in plaque accumulation, inflammation and gingival recession occurs following fixed orthodontic treatment. Key words: Gingival, Orthodontic treatment, Plaque