Perception and satisfaction in patients using clear aligners versus fixed orthodontic appliances

Area of Science:

• Orthodontics and Dental Technology
• Patient-Reported Outcomes
• Comparative Effectiveness Research

Background:

• Patient satisfaction is crucial for orthodontic treatment success.
• Comparisons between clear aligners (CA) and fixed appliances (FA) regarding patient experience remain inconclusive.
• Understanding psychosocial impacts and satisfaction is vital for treatment choice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare patient satisfaction, psychosocial impact, and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) between clear aligners and fixed appliances.
• To assess aesthetic and comfort perceptions throughout orthodontic treatment.
• To provide evidence for informed clinical decision-making in orthodontics.

Main Methods:

• Prospective cohort study involving 120 patients over 12 months.
• Utilized validated questionnaires administered at multiple timepoints.
• Compared patient-reported outcomes for clear aligners versus fixed appliances.

Main Results:

• Clear aligner users reported significantly higher aesthetic satisfaction (78.3% excellent vs 41.7% for FA at 12 months, p<0.001).
• Comfort scores strongly favored clear aligners (p<0.001).
• Oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) was comparable between groups at treatment endpoint (p=0.342).

Conclusions:

• Clear aligners represent an aesthetically superior and more comfortable orthodontic treatment option.
• Clear aligners achieve functional outcomes comparable to fixed appliances.
• This study supports clear aligners as a viable alternative in orthodontic practice.