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Assessing Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Twin Block Functional Therapy for Angle's Class II Malocclusion Among
Abhisek Bhattacharjee1, Richa Khanna1, Rajeev K Singh1
1Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, IND.
Context:
Functional appliances such as Twin Block (TB) play a key role in managing Class II malocclusion during growth. However, limited data exist on pediatric dentists' knowledge and clinical use of this therapy in India.
Aims:
This study evaluated the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of Indian postgraduate students in pediatric dentistry regarding Twin Block functional therapy (TBFT) for treating Class II malocclusion.
Settings And Design:
This was a questionnaire-based, cross-sectional study conducted among postgraduate students across India in March 2023.
Materials And Methods:
A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a structured questionnaire developed through standard methods. The questionnaire assessed knowledge, attitudes, and practical experiences related to Twin Block therapy.
Statistical Analysis:
A total of 135 postgraduate students from various dental institutions across India participated. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and assessment of questionnaire reliability using Cohen's kappa during pilot testing.
Results:
The study revealed that knowledge of Twin Block therapy varied significantly with academic year, with second- and third-year students demonstrating increasingly better understanding. Only 11.8% (16 individuals) of respondents had adequate knowledge, while 62.2% (84 individuals) had average knowledge. Positive attitudes toward the therapy were noted among 78.5% (106 individuals) of participants, but only 47.4% (64 individuals) had treated Class II malocclusion cases. Challenges in patient compliance were reported by 88.2% (57 individuals) of respondents. A preference for part-time wear during meals was observed, differing from the recommended full-time use.
Conclusions:
The findings highlight a gap between knowledge and practical application of Twin Block therapy among Indian pediatric dentistry postgraduates. There is a need for a more structured curriculum and increased clinical exposure to enhance competency in using functional appliances.
