Introduction: Saliva plays a key role in the oral cavity health. It contains many defense elements and is considered a cornerstone in the oral metabolism.
Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the changes in the salivary concentrations of calcium, glucose, total protein, lactate dehydrogenase and alkaline phosphatase in patients undergoing removable orthodontic appliances treatment.
Methods: Ninety saliva samples were collected from thirty subjects ranging in age from
8 to 11 years. An initial sample was attained before starting treatment with removable orthodontic appliances; a second sample 1 month after treatment and a third sample was obtained three months following treatment. The saliva was collected from each patient in pre-labeled sterile containers using the passive drool method.
Results: Salivary lactate dehydrogenase and alkaline phosphatase concentrations were significantly increased in patients undergoing removable orthodontic treatment after as compared to before treatment. There was also an increase in the calcium, glucose and total protein concentrations but the differences were insignificant.
Conclusion: Removable orthodontic treatment changes the oral fluid contents, promotes an increase in the levels of salivary lactate dehydrogenase and alkaline phosphatase enzymes after one month of treatment with increased values after three months. These oral changes emphasize the importance of maintaining proper oral hygiene measures during treatment.