Effect of Fixed Orthodontic Appliances on Oral Microbial Changes and Dental Caries Risk in Children: A 6-Month Prospective Study

Orthodontic treatment can alter the oral environment, leading to plaque accumulation and changes in microbial colonization. This study aimed to assess microbiological changes in 10 to 16-year-old children undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment. The study included children aged 10-16 years, with one group wearing fixed orthodontic appliances and a control group without brackets. Data on salivary pH, buffer capacity, Streptococcus mutans, and Lactobacillus spp were collected at baseline and after 6 months. Logistic regression models evaluated associations between orthodontic treatment and elevated bacterial levels, adjusting for age, gender, pH, and buffer capacity. Wearing fixed orthodontic appliances was significantly associated with elevated Streptococcus mutans (aOR: 6.62, 95% CI: 1.91-21.88) and Lactobacillus spp (aOR: 9.49, 95% CI: 2.57-35.07). Gender showed a significant association with Lactobacillus spp levels (aOR: 0.28, 95% CI: 0.09-0.87). Fixed orthodontic appliances significantly impact oral microbial changes, underscoring the need for proper oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment to reduce dental caries risk.