Correlation of Sugary Snack Intake Frequency and Socioeconomic Status with Oral Hygiene Compliance Measured by Plaque Index in Adolescent Patients with Fixed Orthodontic Appliances

Abstract

Adolescents are more likely to have more trouble with oral hygiene than those who are not wearing one, while on a fixed braces. This is because the fixed brace presents more plaque-retentive surfaces and places, which contributes to increased plaque accumulation. Sugary snacks may lead to the increase of plaque further and socioeconomic status may affect oral hygiene knowledge, dietary practice, and compliance with oral hygiene instructions. The objective of study was to assess the relationship between the frequency of consumption of sugary snacks, socioeconomic status, and oral hygiene by using the Silness and Löe Plaque Index in adolescents (aged 12–18 years) who were in fixed orthodontic treatment for at least 3 months.This cross sectional research was designed to determine the correlation between the frequency of consumption of sugary snacks, socioeconomic status and oral hygiene measured by Silness and Löe Plaque Index among those adolescents who were under fixed orthodontic treatment for duration of 3 or more months. The frequency of sugar intake and socioeconomic status were obtained by a structured questionnaire and the oral hygiene compliance was evaluated clinically according to Plaque Index respectively. Data were analyzed with SPSS version 26 including descriptive statistics, Pearson's correlation test, chi-square test and multiple linear regression. Results were deemed as statistically significant if the p-value was <0.05. Adolescents who ate sugary snacks most often showed significantly higher Plaque Index scores meaning they were not as compliant in maintaining good oral health. Lower socioeconomic status was also a significant factor in increased plaque levels and a decrease in patient's adherence to recommended oral hygiene measures. Frequent consumption of sugary snacks, and lower socioeconomic status were independently associated with poor oral hygiene compliance in multivariable analysis. The results indicate that dietary habits and socio-economic factors have a significant impact on oral hygiene in adolescents with fixed orthodontic braces and warrant special oral health education, diet counseling and preventive measures throughout orthodontic care.