Why Jordanians Seek Orthodontic Treatment ? Demand and Real Need

Abstract

Objectives: Patients seek orthodontic treatment mainly due to psychological reasons, to improve their own dental appearance and aesthetic picture. The purpose of the present study was to determine factors associated with demand for orthodontic treatment and how this relates to real treatment need in a sample of Jordanian patients. Methods: This descriptive study involved 427 internally motivated patients aged 15 years and above who sought Orthodontic treatment at two Royal Medical Services Dental Clinics. Dental health component grade of index of orthodontic treatment need along with patient's chief concerns were recorded, according to these concerns five groups were obtained. Results: Among patients who were seeking treatment only 36% showed a definit need (grades 4 and 5 by orthodontic treatment need) for orthodontic treatment. The desire to have a better dental appearance at the anterior dental area was the main reason (61%). Other factors that influenced patients in seeking orthodontic treatment were to treat functional impairments (14%), profile and extraoral concerns (6%), and smile related reasons (4%). A remaining 15% attributed their desires to rather unusual reasons. Conclusion: Demand for orthodontic treatment outweighs the real subjective need, Royal Medical Services should adopt a standardized index to prioritize patients need and plan resources accordingly. Upper and lower dental crowding and/or malalignment was considered a main factor in seeking orthodontic treatment, and finally health and dental care workers have duty for educating and raising the public dental awareness.