Children’s Experiences Using Various Appliances for Class II Malocclusion: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Abstract Background: Skeletal Class II correction is one of the most challenging malocclusions for a dental surgeon. The appliances used in their treatment have advantages and disadvantages regarding patient comfort. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the experiences of patients regarding the use of various removable appliances for Class II malocclusion. Methodology: Patients were divided into three groups regarding the type of orthopaedic appliance used, i.e. headgear, twin block and a combination of twin block with headgear. The subjects were given a questionnaire which consisted of 15 multiple-choice questions. The children answered the questions in a one-to-one session with the principal investigator in the presence of their parents. The data were collected and descriptive statistics were done, and P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Out of 75 patients, 49 were undergoing treatment with headgear, 14 with twin block and 12 with a combination of twin block and headgear. Amongst these patients, toothache was observed in all patient groups. Pain in temporomandibular joint (TMJ) was found to be statistically significant (P = 0.0397) in subjects using twin block and twin block with headgear. Patients had difficulties during sleeping and speech also. Conclusion: This study has shown that pain of the teeth, jaw pain and sleep difficulties were the common problems encountered while using the appliances. The study also showed that patients had problems with pronunciation. TMJ pain was significant in patients using twin block and twin block with headgear.