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Adolescents' experiences of using removable functional appliances
E Čirgić1, H Kjellberg1, K Hansen2
1Department of Orthodontics, Institute of Odontology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.
Orthodontics & Craniofacial Research
|April 15, 2015
Summary
Adolescents using removable functional appliances developed unique strategies to track progress, highlighting the need for active patient involvement and dentist support. Understanding patient needs is crucial for effective orthodontic treatment.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics
- Adolescent Health
- Qualitative Research
Background:
- Removable functional appliances are commonly used in adolescent orthodontic treatment.
- Understanding patient experiences is vital for treatment success.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore and describe adolescents' experiences with removable functional appliance treatment.
- To identify factors influencing adolescent perceptions of orthodontic care.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative study employing phenomenography.
- Individual interviews conducted with 21 adolescents (mean age 13.2 years).
- Interviews transcribed verbatim and analyzed to identify conceptions of treatment.
Main Results:
- Adolescents' experiences varied widely, encompassing individual approaches, emotions, and coping strategies.
- Key themes included personal strategies for monitoring progress, the role of the dentist, and external support systems.
- Five main categories and 12 subcategories emerged from the data analysis.
Conclusions:
- Adolescents develop self-initiated methods to gauge treatment improvement.
- Active patient involvement, dentist support, and motivational tools like overjet measurement are essential.
- Clinicians must prioritize understanding adolescent needs and expectations before initiating treatment.
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