White spot lesions in orthodontic patients part I: frequency and pattern of distribution

ABSTRACT

To determine the frequency and pattern of white spot lesions developed during orthodontic therapy in a sample of orthodontic patients. This cross-sectional study was designed to compare pre-treatment and post-treatment digital photographs of patients having undergone orthodontic therapy to determine the presence or absence of enamel decalcification in the form of white spot lesions. The distribution of the white spot lesions was also recorded with reference to the tooth type, as well as its location on a particular tooth. Data were analysed using SPSS [version 11.5] where the means and frequencies were computed. The study sample consisted of 60 orthodontic patients. Out of these, 14 [23.3%] were males and 46 [76.7%] were females with male to female ratio of 13.3. The mean age was 14 years and 5 months and the mean fixed appliance treatment duration was 2years and 9 months. The frequency of White Spot Sessions according to the total number of patients affected was 75%, whereas according to the number of total teeth affected was 19%. The upper lateral incisors were the most commonly affected teeth [78.3%], followed by the lower 1st permanent molars [55%], the upper central incisors [43%] and upper canines [40%]. According to the type, the chalky-white White Spot Lessions were more common [76.2%] as compared to the brown lesions and cavitations. According to the site, the upper anterior teeth showed a more central occurrence as compared to the upper posterior and lower teeth, which were mostly affected in the gingival third of the crown. Out of 60 patients, 75% were affected by White Spot Sessions while the overall number of teeth affected was 19%. The most commonly affected teeth were upper lateral incisors [78.3%] while chalky white type White Spot Lessions were more common [76.2%]. Middle third of the crown of upper anterior teeth was the most commonly affected site