Evaluating the Role of Early Orthodontic Intervention in Optimal Oral Health

Abstract

This study was conducted to prevent complications during orthodontic treatment; it is imperative that the patient has good oral hygiene. This study aimed to assess oral health status, oral hygiene practices, and motivation among patients receiving interceptive orthodontic treatment. The study was a cross-sectional study among 250 orthodontic patients at a private dental clinic, employing a self-reported questionnaire and clinical observation. The questionnaire was designed to collect information about oral health status and whether patients included their mouths while performing the necessary tasks to establish their oral hygiene practices. To assess self-perceived oral health, a 10-point scale was employed. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression to identify factors associated with perceived benefit of treatment. More than 70% (70.8%) of patients reported oral health as "Excellent" or "Very good," yet clinical examination found a high prevalence of food debris (46.4%), dental caries (43.6%), and halitosis (37.6%). Although 48.8% of patients brushed their teeth twice a day, it was alarming to see preventive oral hygiene practices with less than 40% of patients using any additional preventive methods; only 32.6% of patients indicated that they used fluoride toothpaste, while dental floss and mouthwash were reported at 36.8% and 41.2%, respectively (with only 12.8% using mouthwash every day). The primary motivation for interceptive treatment was for esthetic improvement (63.6%). The regression analysis suggested that patients' self-rated oral health status is the only significant predictor of perceived benefit of treatment (OR: 1.43, p<0.001). This study highlights an important disparity between patient perception and true oral health status during orthodontic treatment. The findings highlight the need for more in-depth and ongoing motivational patient education that entails more than just brushing frequency, but also demonstrates proper brushing technique, fluoride use, and consistent interdental cleaning to achieve successful treatment and long-term oral health.