1Post Graduate Student, Department of Orthodontics, M.S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, Bangalore-560054
2Professor and Head, Department of Orthodontics, M.S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, Bangalore-560054
3Professor, Department of Orthodontics, M.S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, Bangalore-560054
4Asso Professor, Department of Public Health Dentistry, Faculty of Dental Sciences, M.S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, Bangalore-560054
5Asso Professor, Department of Orthodontics
*Corresponding Author E-mail: ankita.jain1547@gmail.com
Online published on 24 January, 2020.
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the perception of adult population reporting to the department of orthodontics about various aesthetic appliances-Clear aligners vs Lingual appliance vs Ceramic appliance compared to labial metal braces.
Cross-sectional survey with validated questionnaire. The study was in two phases, the first phase consisted of developing a valid questionnaire based on previous studies and expert opinion. Reliability testing of the questionnaire was then carried out by conducting a pilot study by personally surveying 100 adult patients who reported on the Out-patient basis to the Dental institution. An introductory cover letter and information sheet that contained a brief description of all the appliances to ensure full understanding of the questions was included with close ended questions on demographics, smile satisfaction, willingness to undergo orthodontic treatment, knowledge of Aesthetic appliances, and the fees they would be willing to pay for different appliances.
All the 100 participants completed the survey. About 82% of the adult participants showed some degree of concern regarding their smile and dental appearance, and approximately 85% of them were willing to undergo some form of fixed appliance therapy to improve the appearance of their smile. Almost 40% of the adults chose Clear Aligners as the first preference, and approximately 60% of the adults regarded Stainless steel braces as the least desirable. The preference of the appliance was also affected by the level of education.
with increase in the number of adults seeking orthodontic care, there is an increased demand for various aesthetic appliances. Most people reported a sense of hesitation to wear the ‘Train-track’ metal braces because of their unsightly appearance. When given the option, 80% of the adults deem aesthetic appliance (Clear aligners, Lingual Appliance, Ceramic Appliance) as attractive and acceptable, whereas only 20% viewed stainless steel brackets in a similar light.
Adult Orthodontics, Patient Perception, Aesthetic Appliances, Train-Track Braces, Clear Aligners
