Quantitative Determination of Salivary Cariogenic Bacteria in Patients With Fixed Orthodontic Appliances.

Background And Objectives: Fixed orthodontic treatment can alter the oral environment, potentially increasing cariogenic bacteria levels. This study aimed to utilize real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) to quantify salivary levels of cariogenic bacteria in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances.

Methods: This case-control study was conducted in Erbil, Iraq, from April 2024 to August 2024.