Year : 2024

Volume : Volume 15

Issue : Issue 4

Address for correspondence :
Dr. Pravinkumar S. Maroore
drpravinkumar08@gmail.com

Abstract

Background: Malocclusion is known to contribute overall health status and affecting psychosocial health of the individual. Hence as a dental student, it is important to have appropriate knowledge/awareness about dental malocclusion and orthodontic treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate awareness, attitude, and perception toward dental malocclusion and orthodontic treatment among undergraduate dental students. Materials and Methods: Descriptive, cross-sectional survey was conducted on 331 undergraduate dental students through a web-based questionnaire with 15 questions addressing various aspects of dental malocclusion and orthodontic treatment. The questionnaire includes for assessment of student knowledge, attitude, and perception toward malocclusion and orthodontic treatment. All the questionnaire was predesigned and validated, self-administered, structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Results: A total of 331 undergraduate dental students participated in the present survey. Out of which 82% were females and 18% were males. About 85.5% of the participants were aware of the malalignment of teeth. About 58.9% of the respondents expressed willingness to undergo orthodontic treatment, even if the treatment duration is longer. About 53.8% of the survey participants were willing to continue the orthodontic treatment despite experiencing pain and ulcerations. Conclusion: The dental students had good knowledge about orthodontic treatment and had a positive attitude and perception toward it. Majority of undergraduate dental students had very good knowledge, satisfaction, and positive attitude regarding malalignment of teeth and orthodontic treatment.