Comparative Assessment of Dental Awareness Regarding Nutritional Adjuncts (Vitamins C and E) in Orthodontic Preventive Care: Insights from Different Academic Groups (A Cross-Sectional Survey)
Ayat M. Hussein, Yassir A. Yassir, Noor R. Al-Hasani, Grant T. McIntyre, Diana Russo, Hande Uzuncibuk, Maria M. Marrapodi, Giuseppe MinerviniAbstract
Oxidative stress, collagen synthesis, and inflammatory processes have a role in orthodontic movement of teeth. Vitamins C and E play supportive roles, but awareness among dental professionals might not be sufficient. This article aims to compare awareness of the role of vitamins C and E in orthodontic preventive care among Iraqi dental students and practitioners.
This article aims to compare awareness of the role of vitamins C and E in orthodontic preventive care among Iraqi dental students and practitioners.
A cross-sectional survey was conducted among a sample population of 490 respondents (234 undergraduates, 146 general and non-orthodontic practitioners, and 110 orthodontic practitioners). The survey questions covered the topics of awareness, behavior, perception, and attitudes. Data were analyzed using Chi-square and Kruskal–Wallis tests, with the level of statistical significance set at p = 0.05.
The level of awareness was greatest in orthodontic practitioners (58.2%), followed by undergraduates (42.3%) and general practitioners (28.8%). Use of nutritional supplements was also not very common, and intake of vitamin C–rich foods was more often than vitamin E–rich foods. The most preferred method for vitamin administration was systemic supplementation; however, the lack of strong evidence remained the main concern regarding the administration of vitamins C and E. The attitudes of all groups were positive toward the incorporation of nutritional adjuncts in patient care and education.
Orthodontic practitioners were the most aware of vitamins C and E in prevention care in orthodontics; students, general, and non-orthodontic dentists had significant gaps in their knowledge. Although there were positive attitudes toward the use of nutrition in education and patient care, there was limited use of supplements, and more robust evidence and improvement of the curriculum is necessary.