Changing Paradigm in Orthodontics-Invisible Braces: Perception of Indian Adult Population of Clear Aligners vs. Lingual Appliance vs. Ceramic Appliance, Questionnaire Survey Jain Ankita1,*, Mathew Silju2, Prasantha G.S.3, Sagarkar Anitha4, Shree Sathya5, Joseph Allen1 1Post Graduate Student, Department of Orthodontics, M.S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, Bangalore-560054 2Professor and Head, Department of Orthodontics, M.S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, Bangalore-560054 3Professor, Department of Orthodontics, M.S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, Bangalore-560054 4Asso Professor, Department of Public Health Dentistry, Faculty of Dental Sciences, M.S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, Bangalore-560054 5Asso Professor, Department of Orthodontics *Corresponding Author E-mail: ankita.jain1547@gmail.com
Online published on 24 January, 2020. Abstract Introduction The purpose of this study was to evaluate the perception of adult population reporting to the department of orthodontics about various aesthetic appliances-Clear aligners vs Lingual appliance vs Ceramic appliance compared to labial metal braces. Methods Cross-sectional survey with validated questionnaire. The study was in two phases, the first phase consisted of developing a valid questionnaire based on previous studies and expert opinion. Reliability testing of the questionnaire was then carried out by conducting a pilot study by personally surveying 100 adult patients who reported on the Out-patient basis to the Dental institution. An introductory cover letter and information sheet that contained a brief description of all the appliances to ensure full understanding of the questions was included with close ended questions on demographics, smile satisfaction, willingness to undergo orthodontic treatment, knowledge of Aesthetic appliances, and the fees they would be willing to pay for different appliances. Results All the 100 participants completed the survey. About 82% of the adult participants showed some degree of concern regarding their smile and dental appearance, and approximately 85% of them were willing to undergo some form of fixed appliance therapy to improve the appearance of their smile. Almost 40% of the adults chose Clear Aligners as the first preference, and approximately 60% of the adults regarded Stainless steel braces as the least desirable. The preference of the appliance was also affected by the level of education. Conclusion with increase in the number of adults seeking orthodontic care, there is an increased demand for various aesthetic appliances. Most people reported a sense of hesitation to wear the ‘Train-track’ metal braces because of their unsightly appearance. When given the option, 80% of the adults deem aesthetic appliance (Clear aligners, Lingual Appliance, Ceramic Appliance) as attractive and acceptable, whereas only 20% viewed stainless steel brackets in a similar light. Top Keywords Adult Orthodontics, Patient Perception, Aesthetic Appliances, Train-Track Braces, Clear Aligners. Top |