Orthodontic Risk Perspectives among Orthodontists during Treatment: A Descriptive Pilot Study in Greece and Slovakia.

Area of Science:

• Dental sciences
• Orthodontics
• Health communication

Background:

• Effective communication of risks is crucial for informed consent and shared decision-making in healthcare.
• Gaps exist in understanding how demographic and cultural factors influence orthodontic risk communication.
• This study addresses the need to explore orthodontists' perspectives on treatment risks and consent practices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore Greek and Slovak orthodontists' perspectives on risks associated with orthodontic treatment.
• To assess how socio-demographic factors (country, gender, academic degree) influence risk communication and consent.
• To identify disparities in risk emphasis and consent methods between Greek and Slovak orthodontists.

Main Methods:

• An electronic questionnaire was distributed to orthodontists in Greece (N1=570) and Slovakia (N2=210).
• Data collected from September to December 2022 included perspectives on 15 potential orthodontic risks.
• 168 valid responses (77 Greek, 91 Slovak) were analyzed for variations in risk communication and consent practices.

Main Results:

• Significant disparities were found in emphasized risks and consent forms between Greek and Slovak orthodontists.
• Greek orthodontists focused more on risks like relapse and root resorption; Slovak orthodontists on sleep difficulties and ideal results.
• Differences in risk communication and consent practices were observed based on gender and academic degree (PhD).

Conclusions:

• Orthodontic risk assessment is dynamic, with ethical and strategic dimensions influenced by cultural and individual factors.
• Tailored risk communication strategies and an orthodontic informed consent protocol are needed for European orthodontics.
• The study highlights the importance of digital tools in enhancing patient understanding and supporting innovation in orthodontic practices.