Despite the extensive research to explore predisposing risk factors to prevent, reverse, or stop the formation of WSL, this problem continues to be a significant concern for orthodontically treated cases. WSL presents a common aesthetic concern due to irreversibility, the cost for management, and a cause of disappointment for the orthodontist and, more importantly, the patient. While many proposed methods exist to manage WSL, early detection remains the state-of-the-art practice. Therefore, documenting and quantifying WSL can be a beneficial tool for monitoring. The available methods of detecting WSL range from precise, invasive, and expensive to inexpensive but not user-friendly and time-consuming procedures. For busy clinicians, awareness of factors influencing WSL while implementing simple chairside methods of documentation can help control or prevent WSL during treatment.
Learning Objectives:
After this lecture, attendees will be able to:
Rehearse an update of existing factors influencing WSL.
Place an emphasis on possible underestimated factors arising from ongoing research.
Summarize the implementation of preexisting tools that allow clinicians to quantify and potentially educate patients to improve brushing techniques.
