Page 148 - FINAL COMPENDIUM 2020-2021 27.2.2022

FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH DEVELOPMENT OF WHITE SPOT LESIONS IN ORTHODONTIC
PATIENTS USING FIXED APPLIANCES
NMRR-18-2576-43499 (IIR)

Ong V, Soh HS

Objectives: To determine the prevalence, severity, and factors associated with
development of white spot lesions (WSL) in patients with fixed appliance treatment.
Materials and methods: 80 patients attending the Taiping Government Orthodontic Clinic
between November 2018 and September 2019 were included in this cross-sectional
study. Data collection was performed using a customized validated form. Visual and tactile
examinations were carried out to determine the location and severity of WSL on the labial
aspect of teeth which previously had orthodontic brackets bonded to them. Results: The
prevalence of at least one WSL observed in patients was 82.5%, with no gender
predilection. Most frequent site of WSL was the gingival surfaces, with the mandibular
first molars and premolars being the most common teeth affected. Factors found
significant (p < 0.05) were poor oral hygiene and the consumption of sugary drinks.
Conclusion: This study is significant because it is the first WSL prevalence study done on
Malaysian population undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment. WSL requires attention of
both practitioner and patient. If left untreated, it can lead to dental caries and reduced
quality of oral health.

Keywords: White spot lesion, Orthodontic fixed appliance, Prevalence, Risk factors

nd
Oral presentation at the 22 NIH Scientific Conference 2021 on 21-23 September 2021
Dr Ong Vivian
Orthodontic Unit
Taiping Dental Clinic
Larut Matang & Selama District
Perak

Dr Soh Huey Shyen
Orthodontic Unit
Ipoh Dental Clinic
Kinta District
Perak

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