Patient Perspectives on Orthodontic Treatment Challenges, Knowledge, and Attitudes: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Orthodontic treatment involves the placement of appliances such as brackets, bands, and wires that are foreign objects within the oral cavity. These appliances, combined with the long treatment duration, can pose various physical and psychological challenges for patients. Understanding these challenges and assessing patient knowledge and attitudes may facilitate targeted patient education and improve treatment compliance.

A cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was conducted among 150 patients (aged 15-30 years) undergoing active orthodontic treatment. A structured, pre-validated 20-item questionnaire assessed treatment-related challenges, knowledge, and attitudes toward orthodontic treatment. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Prevalence estimates with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated for all variables.

Food lodgment (54.7%; 95% CI: 46.7%-62.6%) and pain (53.3%; 95% CI: 45.3%-61.3%) were the most frequently reported challenges. Posterior bracket breakage (73.3%) was more frequently reported than anterior bracket breakage (26.7%). The majority of patients demonstrated a positive attitude: 93.3% took extra care in brushing, 86.7% were aware of the need for retainers, and 95.3% would recommend orthodontic treatment to others. Overall treatment satisfaction was high, with 90.6% rating their experience as good or very good.

Food lodgment, pain, and oral ulcers were the most prevalent challenges during orthodontic treatment. Despite these difficulties, patients displayed good knowledge and a positive attitude toward their treatment, highlighting the effectiveness of patient education and counseling.