Factors Affecting the Seeking of Orthodontic Treatment of Turkish Adults

Abstract

Objective The aim of this study is to determine the factors that are effective in seeking orthodontic treatment of Turkish adult individuals and to evaluate the effects of demographic characteristics such as gender, age, marital status, and educational status of the participants on these factors comparatively. Methods A questionnaire-based study was applied to participants who want to receive orthodontic treatment. In the first part, the participants were asked about demographic information such as gender, age, marital status, occupation, and educational status. A total of 542 people (330 female and 212 male) were included in our study. The age of participants included in the study ranged between 18 and 45. Questions about oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups and the factors that affect in seeking orthodontic treatment were asked in the second part of the questionnaire. Results Young adults and females were found to have a higher rate of seeking orthodontic treatment. When the participants were asked what led them to orthodontic treatment, 72.1% of the participants stated that they thought it as a necessity such that they should receive orthodontic treatment. Material selection in orthodontic treatment shows statistical significance according to demographic characteristics ( p < 0.05). While 48% of the participants in the 18ȓ24 age group preferred metal orthodontic brackets, 37.9% of the participants in the 25–45 age group preferred clear aligner. Moreover, 40.4% of the married participants preferred clear aligner, while 45.1% of the single participants preferred metal orthodontic brackets. Conclusion The factors in seeking orthodontic treatment of individuals vary according to demographic characteristics and social environment of individuals.