Perception of Dental Caries Risk and Prevention among Orthodontic Patients – A Cross-Sectional Survey

Aim: To investigate the perception of dental caries risk and prevention among patients undergoing orthodontic treatment and to assess the influence of the oral hygiene information attained during orthodontic visits on patients’ perception of dental caries prevention. Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire gathered information from 207 orthodontic patients (aged 18 and older). The questionnaire included questions about patients’ demographics, perception of dental caries risk and prevention during orthodontic treatment, and oral hygiene information received in orthodontic visits. Frequency distributions of responses were evaluated. Chi-square test was used to assess the differences in patients’ perception of dental caries prevention by demographics, and the oral hygiene information received during orthodontic appointments. Results: 74.9% of orthodontic patients perceived to be responsible for dental caries during orthodontic treatment, and 30.4% of patients perceived that it is abnormal to develop dental caries during treatment. Patients receiving information about tooth brushing methods and oral hygiene accessories during orthodontic appointments had a better perception of appropriate oral hygiene in preventing dental caries (P= 0.01 and P= 0.04, respectively). Moreover, patients receiving dietary information during orthodontic appointments had a better perception of supporting a good diet and avoiding sweets in preventing dental caries (P< 0.001 and P= 0.02, respectively). Conclusion: There is a need to improve orthodontic patients’ perception of their risk of dental caries during orthodontic treatment and the manners that would help to avoid new decay lesions. Orthodontists should not underestimate the value of providing and reinforcing oral hygiene instructions throughout the course of orthodontic treatment.