Does facial appearance of dentofacial deformity influence the need for orthognathic surgery: The Malaysian perception

Aim: This study evaluates perception toward facial appearance in dentofacial deformity and the need for orthognathic surgery among the public with and without dental backgrounds. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire consisting of 12 facial photographs of cases with dentofacial deformity or malocclusion in varying severity was used. A hundred individuals were selected to answer the questionnaire. The perception of facial appearance (FAS), treatment need score (TNS), and knowledge regarding dentofacial deformity were used for the evaluation. Results: Significant differences were found between dental and non-dental when the respondents' knowledge in all the questionnaire items ([Formula: see text].05) was assessed. However, no significant difference was found in the mean of FAS and TNS in all the presented cases (normal, borderline, severe). Pearson correlation between perceived FAS and TNS was statistically negative for severe and normal cases, whereby a decrease in FAS for severe cases showed an increase in TNS, and an increase in FAS for normal cases showed a decrease in TNS. Conclusion: Respondents with dental background had sound knowledge of dentofacial deformity. A poorly attractive respondent with dentofacial deformity showed a greater need for orthognathic surgery.