Patient’s dento-facial motivations for orthodontic treatment: A questionnaire study

Abstract

Introduction: Patients are concerned about their aesthetics; however it is important to realize that due to lack of awareness, generally people feel that facial aesthetics is not the domain of orthodontist. Hence they mainly report to orthodontists with dental anomalies only, especially prominent incisors or crowding. The objective of this study was to assess the dento-facial motivational factors for orthodontic treatment.

Material and Methods: A total of 250 physically and mentally healthy participants, aged 18-45 years were included in this study. These patients filled a consent form and valid questionnaire. SPSS 17.0 was used for statistical evaluation.

Results: Results showed that straightening of teeth (23.2%), prominent maxillary incisors (21.2%) and deep bite (17.6%) were the pivotal concerns.

Conclusions: Females were more aesthetically literate and concerned. Concerns of maxillary arch problems were more important to patients than lower anterior crowding. Adult patients and guardians of younger patients showed concern about treatment need.