Attitude towards malocclusion and orthodontic treatment among 10-35 years old Malaysians

Aim : The study was conducted to evaluate the attitude of Malaysians in the age group 10-35 years towards malocclusion, their desire for orthodontic treatment and the effect of gender on the attitude towards orthodontic treatment. Materials & Methods : A cross sectional questionnaire based study was conducted among 250 patients from MAHSA University dental clinic and three other orthodontic outpatient dental clinics in Kuala Lumpur comprising of male and female patients. A structured questionnaire including demographic details of the patients along with 15 questions, especially designed to evaluate the attitude of people towards malocclusion and orthodontic treatment, was distributed among the patients. Quantitative data collection methods were used to investigate the relationship between attitude towards malocclusion among the population and their desire to have orthodontic treatment. Results : The findings revealed that 72% subjects thought that they suffered from teeth irregularities and 54% subjects agreed that malocclusion is a problem for them. Additionally, 40% agreed that attaining straight teeth to be the major reason for seeking orthodontic treatment. Of these, 45% were females and 35% males. It emerged from this research that among females, 14% of cases were noticed by friends and only 5% among males. Among the reasons for not opting for orthodontic treatment, finance was the most common reason among females(42%) and lack of interest among the males(31%). Summary : This study revealed a mixed reaction towards orthodontic treatment. However, majority agreed that orthodontic treatment would improve their mental and physical well being.