Orthodontic treatment and patient’s expectations

Abstract

Introduction: It is paramount to know the expectations of the patients in terms of the type of treatment provided, problems associated with treatment, duration and frequency of attendance, benefits of treatment, attitude of orthodontist and complications of treatment. Hence the aim of this study was to assess the expectations of patients from orthodontic treatment.

Material and Methods: A total of 50 physically and mentally healthy participants in the age range of 15 to 30 years were included in the study. A valid and reliable questionnaire was used to measure the patients’ responses. Questions were asked about expectations of their initial visit, the type of treatment expected, problems associated with treatment, duration and frequency of attendance, benefits of treatment, attitude of orthodontist and complications of treatment. The statistical evaluation of the data was performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 19.Descriptive analyses were used to calculate the responses of the patients.

Results: Patient’s expectations regarding orthodontic treatment were different as shown by their responses.

Conclusions: It was concluded from this study that patients were well aware of every aspect of the orthodontic treatment and their expectations could be easily met leading to more patient satisfaction.