Knowledge and Awareness of Orthodontic Malocclusions and Optimal Treatment Timing Among Primary School Teachers in...

Background Orthodontic malocclusions are common in school-aged children and, if left untreated, can lead to functional, esthetic, and psychosocial complications. Schoolteachers, as early observers of children's development, are well-positioned to recognize such issues. This study aims to assess the knowledge and awareness of primary school teachers in Andhra Pradesh regarding common orthodontic malocclusions and the importance of early intervention. Methods A cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was conducted among 162 primary school teachers across various districts of Andhra Pradesh. The survey assessed participants' ability to identify types of malocclusion, their understanding of the consequences of untreated malocclusion, and their knowledge about the appropriate timing for orthodontic treatment. Statistical analysis was performed to evaluate associations between awareness levels and demographic variables. Results The majority of teachers were able to recognize visible dental issues such as spacing (67%) and irregularly aligned teeth (63.5%). However, awareness was significantly lower for less obvious malocclusion types like crossbite, overbite, and underbite. Educational qualification showed a statistically significant association with awareness of crowding (p = 0.014) and spacing (p = 0.049). Younger teachers and those with fewer years of experience were more likely to know the recommended age for orthodontic consultation. Out of 162 participants, 60.5% correctly identified the appropriate age for the first orthodontic check-up, while 53.7% correctly responded about the best age to treat jaw-related malocclusions. However, only 44.4% were aware of the mixed dentition phase and its relevance. The overall awareness of complications resulting from untreated malocclusion was found to be low. Among these, only the association between malocclusion and tooth decay was statistically significant (p = 0.020). Conclusion The study highlights a moderate level of awareness among primary school teachers regarding orthodontic malocclusions, with notable gaps in knowledge about specific types and treatment timing.