White spot formation under banded molars after orthodontic treatment and suggested preventive measures

Abstract EN

Objective : The presence of fixed orthodontic appliances in the mouth undoubtedly predisposes to the accumulation of plaque.

Two favored sites for such accumulation are around the cervical margins of the teeth and under the molar bands.

This study was carried out to find out the incidence and severity of white spots after a full term of orthodontic treatment under the molar bands.

Methods : The incidence of white spots under the molar bands of 75 patients (300 first molars) treated by fixed appliances in Queen Alia Hospital was recorded at the time of debonding during the year 2005.

Direct clinical examination for the presence of white spots was made on the labial surface of the first molar teeth.

Results : Following debonding 93.3% of patients had at least one white spot and 50% of the examined molars had, to some extent, a degree of decalcification.

There was no significant difference between male and female white spot distribution.

Conclusion : This study revealed that the incidence of white spots among this sample of Jordanian patients was very high.

Of equal, if not greater, benefit would be the implementation of more stringent and more frequent preventive measures applied prior to and throughout the period of active treatment.

Both patients and parents should be instructed and motivated on the importance and on how to maintain the highest standards of oral hygiene.