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Published on: June 10, 2013
Parental perceptions and attitudes on orthodontic care
P Pratelli1, S Gelbier, D E Gibbons
1Department of Dental Public Health & Community Dental Education, King's College School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of London, U.K.
Summary
Parents
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Parental Health Attitudes
Background:
- Parental attitudes significantly influence children's healthcare decisions.
- Understanding parental perceptions of orthodontic needs is crucial for treatment adherence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between parents' own orthodontic attitudes and their perceptions of their child's orthodontic needs.
- To explore factors influencing parental decisions regarding pediatric orthodontic treatment.
Main Methods:
- Analytical survey utilizing self-administered questionnaires.
- Study conducted in South East England with 437 parents of 9-year-old children.
- Logistic regression analysis employed to determine significant associations.
Main Results:
- Parents desiring orthodontic treatment for themselves were three times more likely to perceive a need for it in their children.
- Parental satisfaction with their own dental appearance and history of orthodontic treatment were associated with perceived need in their child.
- Parental history of orthodontic treatment correlated with a determination to ensure their child's cooperation.
Conclusions:
- Parents' personal orthodontic experiences and desires appear to influence their assessment of their children's orthodontic needs.
- Evidence suggests a link between parental orthodontic history and approval of orthodontic care for their children.
- Further research is recommended to explore potential genetic factors influencing these attitudes.
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