A Survey to Assess Oral Hygiene Awareness, Difficulties Faced and Satisfaction Level During and after Orthodontic Treatment

Abstract

Introduction: The foremost goal of orthodontic treatment is to improve dental occlusion and alignment
of teeth, which eventually results in a healthy functioning of dentition and facial aesthetics. The aim of the
present study was to assess the oral hygiene awareness, difficulties faced and satisfaction level among a
group of students undergoing orthodontic therapy during and after treatment.
Materials and Methods: A sample of 200 students from Melaka Manipal Medical College, who received
orthodontic treatment were included in the study. A cross - sectional study in the form of self-administered
questionnaire was carried out. The questions were based mainly to assess the difficulties faced, awareness
with regard to oral hygiene and satisfaction level of the participants during and after orthodontic treatment.
Results: The difficulties faced by orthodontics patients were in the range of 65 to 85%, which were trouble
sleeping, food lodgement and difficulty in maintaining oral hygiene. Study participants were not aware of
various cleaning modes though more than 50% used floss. In the post treatment phase, aesthetic appearance
was found to be better.
Conclusion: The present study showed that the participants who were undergoing orthodontic treatment did
not have sufficient knowledge about oral hygiene practices. The participants were satisfied with the aesthetic
appearance post treatment.