Naveed Mazhar Bhatti, Tabassum Naveed.
Demographic profile of perception of patients about malocclusion and treatment need in Abbottabad.
Pak Oral Dental J Jan ;37(4):572-5.

Surveys have found that the aspect of appearance with which people are most dissatisfied is their teeth especially malocclusion of front teeth is considered much more influential in self-perceptions of dental attractiveness. Therefore, one of the main reasons for seeking orthodontic treatment is for improving aesthetics. The aim of the survey was to provide basic demographic profile of self-perception of patients about their malocclusion seeking the Orthodontic treatment in rural area of Abbottabad. 30 patients, 5 males and 25 females, with age range from 12-18 years at Rehmat Memorial Dental Hospital, Abbottabad seeking orthodontic treatment participated in study. Convenience sampling was used, and our study tool comprised a 10-item questionnaire. Data was analyzed using SPSS ver 21. 40% patients rated straight teeth to be important followed by face shape. 73% patients said attaining straight teeth is the main reason for treatment followed by 37% patients citing enhancing facial appearance as main reason. 50% mothers, 40% self and 15% recommendation by dentists were reasons for starting the treatment. Patients placed a lot of emphasis over their facial appearance and beauty. Parents, primarily the mothers, were responsible for seeking treatment for young and adolescent children. Patients placed high value on facial appearance to be normal in order to have high self-esteem and self-satisfaction and peer acceptance.

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