An exploration of predictor variables for changes in self-esteem and self-concept as a result of orthodontic treatment

Introduction. The benefits of orthodontic treatment often go beyond improving patients' dental appearance and leads to an improvement in their self-esteem and self-concept. However, the beneficial psychological effects may vary from patient to patient due to certain predisposing factors. Purpose. To evaluate whether certain independent variables allow for prediction of the psychological outcome of conventional orthodontic treatment. Methods. A sample of 140 adolescent patients grouped by stage of orthodontic treatment (pre-, mid-, and post-orthodontic treatment). Self-esteem and self-concept were measured by the Tennessee Self-Concept Scale II. Results. The Multivariate Analysis of Variance indicated that the only combination of predictor variables that demonstrated significant interactions was the combination of Treatment Phase, Ethnicity, and Income class (F=2.560, p<.044). Conclusions. Changes in Self-Esteem and Self-Concept are different for different socioeconomic backgrounds and different races. Lower income groups and Blacks benefit the most, then Hispanics, then Whites; Asians did not benefit.