Economic Accessibility of Orthodontic Care in India: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background The rising demand for orthodontic services is juxtaposed with concerns regarding economic accessibility for diverse socioeconomic groups. Aim This study aims to investigate the economic accessibility of orthodontic care in India through a comprehensive questionnaire-based approach. Material and methods The survey involved a random sample of 5,000 patients actively seeking orthodontic treatment, recruited from both dental college clinics and private dental practices. A structured questionnaire was administered to gather data on education, income levels, awareness of treatment costs, and perceived barriers to undergoing orthodontic treatment. Descriptive statistics, such as frequencies and percentages, were utilized to summarize variables. Results Forty-six point three-two percent (46.32%) of participants expressed the belief that achieving a healthy smile should be recognized as a fundamental aspect of the Right to Health. Fifty-eight point three-four percent (58.34%) of participants felt orthodontic treatment was expensive. Seventy-seven point three percent (77.3%) felt the need for some assistance in managing the expenses of orthodontic treatment. Conclusion Governments' support plays an important role in the promotion of orthodontic care affordability in India, as well as in the general vision of orthodontic treatment as a part of comprehensive health care. Such efforts will help make a healthy and confident smile possible for all, thus achieving the study's goal of identifying economic factors that affect orthodontic treatment.