A comparison between DAI and SCAN in estimating orthodontic treatment need

Area of Science:

• Orthodontics
• Dental Aesthetics
• Public Health

Background:

• Accurate assessment of orthodontic treatment need is crucial for prioritizing care.
• Existing aesthetic indices, such as the Dental Aesthetic Index (DAI) and Standardised Continuum of Aesthetic Need (SCAN Index), aim to quantify aesthetic concerns.
• Understanding the reliability and correlation between these indices is essential for clinical application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the reliability of the Dental Aesthetic Index (DAI) and the Standardised Continuum of Aesthetic Need (SCAN Index).
• To determine the correlation between DAI and SCAN Index in estimating orthodontic treatment priority.
• To assess the consistency of these indices in clinical settings.

Main Methods:

• A sample of 53 orthodontic patient records and study models were analyzed.
• The Dental Aesthetic Index (DAI) and the Standardised Continuum of Aesthetic Need (SCAN Index) were applied to the selected cases.
• Statistical analysis was performed to assess correlation and significance.

Main Results:

• A moderate positive correlation (r = 0.67) was observed between the DAI and the SCAN Index.
• The correlation between the two indices was statistically significant (p < 0.001).
• The findings suggest that both indices can be used consistently for assessing orthodontic treatment need.

Conclusions:

• The DAI and SCAN Index demonstrate a significant correlation, indicating potential for consistent application in prioritizing orthodontic treatment.
• While reliable, the limitations of both indices warrant consideration in clinical decision-making.
• Further research may explore refining these indices or developing new ones for enhanced accuracy.