Impact of Orthodontic Treatment Needs on Oral Health-Related Quality of Life among the Early Adults: A Questionnaire Study

Abstract

Background: The importance of evaluating oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) among orthodontic patients relates to the impact of dental esthetics on social acceptance and self-concept. The aim of the study was to assess the impact of different orthodontic treatment needs on the OHRQoL in early adults. Methods: The study sample comprised 100 young adult orthodontic patients (50 men and 50 women; age range, 18-22 years) selected from institutional OPD. Each participant of the study was assessed for orthodontic treatment need and OHRQoL by using Orthodontic Treatment Need Index (IOTN) and the shortened version of Oral Health Impact Profile questionnaire. Result: Orthodontic patients who had little or no, borderline, and actual need for orthodontic treatment represented 13%, 11%, and 76% of the total sample, respectively. Orthodontic treatment needs significantly affected mouth aching, uncomfortable to eat food, self-consciousness, tension, unsatisfactory diet, meal interruption, embarrassment, irritability, taste, and relaxation in both men and women (P < 0.001). Pronunciation, life satisfaction, and ability to do jobs or function were not significantly associated with orthodontic treatment needs in either sex. Conclusions: These findings of this study emphasize the impact of malocclusion on OHRQoL of young adults.