Quality of Life of Patients with Jaw Deformities

Abstract

Recently, the importance of subjective measures such as patient satisfaction and quality of life has been recognized in clinical practice. Surgical orthodontic treatment for patients with jaw deformities not only improves maxillofacial morphology and occlusion, but also has a positive impact on oral and maxillofacial function, psychological and social aspects, and improves the quality of life of the patients. The Orthognathic Quality of Life Questionnaire, which was developed as a jaw deformity disease-specific quality-of-life scale, is also a useful method for assessing the quality of life in patients with jaw deformities. On the other hand, patient satisfaction is an important quality-of-life measure, but not all patients are satisfied with the results of surgical orthodontic treatment. Therefore, in order to increase patient satisfaction, it is essential to carefully analyze the patient’s complaints during the preoperative medical interview based on a correct diagnosis of jaw deformities, to fully discuss the surgical technique and the direction and amount of jaw movement with the patient, and to obtain sufficient informed consent for any possible complications.