Association of self-esteem with perceived orthodontic treatment need and oral health-related quality of life among 12-15 years schoolchildren - A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Objectives: The objective of the study was to assess the association of self-esteem (SE) with perceived orthodontic treatment need and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) among 12–15 years old schoolchildren in Bengaluru city, India. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 schoolchildren aged 12–15 years in Bengaluru city, India. The data were collected on a structured pro forma that included demographic profile, perceived orthodontic treatment need questionnaire, Child Oral Health Impact Profile (COHIP), and the modified version of the Harter’s self-perception profile rated by the children. ANOVA, Chi-square test, and multivariate linear analysis models were used. P < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: The mean age of the study group was 13.21 ± 1.08 years. Most of the study participants were female (53%). Among the participants, 67% perceived orthodontic treatment need. Mean scores for COHIP and SE were 38.3 ± 10.7 and 91.5 ± 8.3, respectively. In multivariate linear regression analysis, SE was significantly associated with OHRQoL (0.161 [95% confidence interval CI 0.086–0.235)] and perceived orthodontic need [−0.701 (95% CI −1.252, −0.151)]. Conclusion: In this study, orthodontic treatment needs influenced SE and OHRQoL in the children. Hence, early diagnosis and prompt treatment can improve SE and OHRQoL.