Evaluation of reliability of index of orthodontic treatment need for assessment of orthodontic treatment need

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the reliability of index of orthodontic treatment need (IOTN) for assessment of orthodontic treatment need. Materials and Methods: A total of 106 subjects of aged between 18 and 25 years with no history of orthodontic treatment were selected by the convenience sampling method from the nondental student population of institutions belonging to North Indian population. The expressed demand for orthodontic treatment by the subjects was assessed using questionnaire. The self-perception of the subjects about orthodontic treatment need was done using aesthetic component (AC) of IOTN. The need for orthodontic treatment was evaluated by the investigator using AC and dental health component (DHC) of IOTN and by a panel of orthodontists using subjective assessment of the patient's study models. Results: Orthodontic treatment need to be determined by the investigator using DHC of IOTN moderately correlated with the demand of orthodontic treatment by the subjects as assessed using subjects response to questionnaires (ρ = 0.627) and orthodontic treatment need to be determined by the opinion of the panel of orthodontists (ρ = 0.598). Conclusion: DHC of IOTN was found to be reliable for evaluating orthodontic treatment need.