Orthodontic treatment need and perceived quality of life assessment

Orthodontics aims to enhance the esthetic and functional components of the oral cavity and dentofacial complex. The purpose of this study was to examine quality of life (QoL) related issues in seeking orthodontic treatment. We will also examine how QoL is affected amongst varied gender, race, and age groups. Methods. We identified a random group of patients from 14-65 years with varied ethnicities. The patients completed a 22 question survey and the investigator evaluated their malocclusion via the ICON index. The sample was divided according to gender, race, and age groups for comparisons. Conclusions. QoL impact was relatively low. There is no correlation between the severity of the malocclusion and perceived QoL. Females have decreased QoL values, despite the severity of malocclusion. Younger patients have more severe malocclusions, but have a lower QoL impact. No significant differences in overall QoL or ICON were present between racial groups.