Influence of Salivary Parameters in Teenagers Undergoing Orthodontic Treatment in Caries Development

To assess the link between ACLs and salivary parameters (CA VI, pH, buffering capacity, α-amylase, and SFR) in adolescents (12-17 years) with fixed orthodontic appliances.

A longitudinal observational study with 100 healthy adolescents. Stimulated saliva samples were collected at baseline, 1, 3, 6, and 12 months post-application. Parameters measured included SFR, pH, buffering capacity, α-amylase, and CA VI. ACLs were diagnosed using Nyvad's criteria.

SFR increased at one month in non-ACL patients (P ≈ 0.0283) and correlated with CA VI at three months. Buffering capacity dropped at three months (P < 0.0001) and partially recovered by 12 months. α-Amylase decreased at one and six months (P = 0.0003). CA VI positively correlated with SFR at three months and negatively with pH at one month. New caries appeared around three months, aligning with reduced enzymatic and buffering defenses.

Orthodontic treatment triggers early salivary flow increases, but declines in buffering capacity, α-amylase, and CA VI between three and six months coincide with ACL onset. This high-risk phase highlights the need for early preventive care, despite parameter recovery by 12 months.