Comparison of knowledge, self-perception about malocclusion and orthodontic treatment need amongst undergraduate dental students

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction Perception regarding malocclusion and esthetics is affected by knowledge, age, race, gender, social background, and exposure. This study compares knowledge and awareness of undergraduate dental students regarding malocclusion, its impact on oral and mental health, and students’ self- perceived need for orthodontic treatment. Material and Methods A multi-centre cross-sectional study evaluated 424 questionnaires. They were assessed and compared on knowledge, awareness, and self-perception regarding malocclusion. Results were reported in percentages and compared using chi-square test. Results Most of the respondents were females, (82.1%). 4th year students were most aware about malocclusion’s effects on caries (86.8%), plaque (98.1%) and gingivitis (85.8%), p-value was significant, 0.000. Mostly, 3rd year students favoured well-aligned teeth, 91.5%, (p = 0.431); 2nd year students mostly, regarded aligned teeth important for esthetics (96.2%) p = 0.042; 4th year students mostly reported self-perceived need for orthodontic treatment, 43.4% (p = 0.048) and thought malocclusion affected one’s self-esteem 86.8% (p = 0.031), acceptance amongst peers 51.9% (p = 0.000) and mental health 52.8% (p = 0.000). Conclusion Knowledge and self-perception regarding malocclusion did not have a direct relation with the level of education of the dental students studied.