Caries risk profiles in orthodontic patients at follow-up using cariogram

Abstract

Objective: To analyze caries-related factors shortly after orthodontic treatment and to use the Cariogram computer program to describe caries risk profiles at follow-up in these patients. Materials and Methods: One hundred orthodontic patients age 12-29 years, with a mean age of 17.5 years, were included in the study. They were divided into two groups (50 in each) based on their prebonding decayed, filled surfaces index (DFS). High (5 ≥ DFS) and low (2 ≤ DFS) groups were created. All patients were examined after debonding in the following order: interview, plaque score, caries examination, saliva samples, bitewing radiographs, panoramic radiographs, and intra-oral digital photos. All types of carious lesions in both the enamel and dentine were diagnosed clinically and radiographically and included in the DFS index. A paraffin-stimulated whole saliva sample was collected for estimations of secretion rate, buffer capacity, and number of mutans streptococci and lactobacilli. Results: The low caries group (2 ≤ DFS) displayed a statistically significant difference and low values for the following factors, DFS (P < .001), lactobacilli (P < .001), mutans streptococci (P < .001), and high Cariogram percent (P < .001). The plaque index displayed very close significance (P < .051). Conclusions: Patients with high (5 ≥ DFS) numbers before orthodontic treatment ran a higher risk of developing caries. They had significantly higher numbers of mutans streptococci and lactobacilli and had less chance of avoiding new cavities according to the Cariogram. © 2008 by The EH Angle Education and Research Foundation, Inc.