Prevalence of White Spot Lesions in Fixed Orthodontic Patients and the Role of Fluoride Varnishes in Prevention

Abstract

Introduction: Patients receiving fixed orthodontic treatment often develop white spot lesions (WSLs), which are early indicators of enamel demineralization. Brackets and wires make it more difficult to practice good oral hygiene, which raises the risk of plaque buildup and the development of WSL. Because fluoride varnishes promote enamel remineralization, they have been shown to help prevent WSLs.

Methodology: Over the course of a year, this cross-sectional research was carried out at the Orthodontics Department at Khyber College of Dentistry in Peshawar. Included were 132 patients between the ages of 12 and 35 who had been receiving fixed orthodontic treatment for at least six months. Participants were split into two groups: Group B did not get any fluoride treatment, whereas Group A got 5% sodium fluoride varnish at 3-month intervals. Modified ICDAS criteria were used during the clinical evaluation, and SPSS version 26 was used for data analysis. To find related risk variables, logistic regression was used in conjunction with chi-square and t-tests.

Results: The overall prevalence of WSLs was 48.5%. Group A had significantly fewer lesions (28.8%) compared to Group B (68.2%) (p < 0.001). The mean number of lesions per patient was also significantly lower in the varnish group (1.21 ± 1.38) than in the control group (3.05 ± 2.41). Logistic regression confirmed fluoride varnish as a protective factor (OR = 0.28, p < 0.001).

Conclusion: Fluoride varnish significantly reduces the prevalence and severity of white spot lesions in orthodontic patients. Routine application should be considered as a preventive strategy during fixed orthodontic treatment.