- MEDIUM
- Research
- Tier 2
- Clinical & Visual
Systematic review evaluates initial carious lesion rates associated
- Source
- Today's RDH
- Author
- Today's RDH
- Originally at
- todaysrdh.com(opens in a new tab)
Summary and scoring by The Bell Brief (Dr. Jennifer Bell) using the Drill-Down Protocol. Not the original publisher.
Why it matters for dental
Orthodontists and general dentists placing fixed appliances should plan preventive protocols because a systematic review shows that more than half of patients develop initial carious lesions and that professional fluoride applications cut incidence.
Key points
- 01
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 21 studies found an average of two new initial carious lesions per patient and one-sixth of surfaces affected during or after fixed orthodontic treatment.
- 02
Lateral incisors and maxillary canines showed the highest lesion rates; premolars and first molars also had elevated incidence linked to limited cleaning access between brackets and gingiva.
- 03
Professional fluoride varnish applied every two to three months significantly lowered lesion development, while fluoride rinses produced only slight reduction.
- 04
All reviewed studies that assessed home care linked higher daily brushing frequency and better oral hygiene to lower initial-caries incidence.
Who should care
- Specialist
- Academia / research
Read the original
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