Evaluation of white spot lesions after removable appliance treatment in the mixed dentition period with photodiagnostic method

Introduction White spot lesions (WSL), which are considered the beginning of caries formation, can often be seen during orthodontic treatments. This study aims to investigate the influence of removable orthodontic appliances, utilized during the mixed dentition phase, on the development of WSL using the photodiagnostic method.Materials and methods Eighteen patients with posterior or anterior crossbite and planned for treatment with the use of removable orthodontic appliances were included in the study. Since the individuals were in the period of tooth change, a total of 8-permanent incisors and 4-permanent first molars were examined in terms of WSL.WSL examination was performed using the quantitative light-induced fluorescence method using pre- and post-treatment recordings.Results There was a significant positive improvement in all parameters in the maxillary right central incisor(p < 0.05). ΔQ values of maxillary permanent right first molar and mandibular permanent right central incisors were significantly decreased(p < 0.05). There was a significant decrease in ΔF, ΔFmax and ΔQ values of the mandibular right permanent first molar(p < 0.05).Conclusion With removable orthodontic appliances that can be used in the mixed dentition period, a decrease in WSL formation may occur. In addition, WSL changes in the mixed dentition occurred mostly in the right teeth.