Assessment of oral health status of patients undergoing fixed orthodontics: A clinical study

Background: The incidence of dental caries and gingival disease is at higher level in orthodontic patients. The present study demonstrated oral health status of patients undergoing fixed orthodontics. Methodology: A total of 168 patients age ranged 12-17 years who were undergoing orthodontic treatment for 2 years of both genders were recruited. The assessment of dental caries as Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT) score and plaque index was determined at first, second, and last visits. Results: Age 12 years had 22 males and 28 females, 13 years had 14 males and 22 females, 14 years had 8 males and 18 females, 15 years had 7 males and 15 females, 16 years had 6 males and 14 females, and 17 years had 9 males and 5 females. The mean DMFT score in age group 12 years was 1.74 and 2.24 at first and third visits, respectively, at 13 years was 1.60 and 2.04 at first and third visits, respectively, at 14 years was 2.38 and 2.72 at first and third visits, respectively, at 15 years was 1.74 and 2.08, at 16 years was 3.32 and 3.56 and at 17 years was 3.40, and 3.64 at first and third visits, respectively. Conclusion: There was significant higher dental caries and plaque index in age group 12 years.