STUDY ON THE PATIENTS PERCEPTION OF ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT IN CENTRAL TRAVANCORE POPULATION- A QUESTIONNAIRE BASED STUDY.

Introduction- Malocclusion is a common phenomenon which can affect the physical, social, psychological and sometimes economical well-being of the patients. Orthodontics is that branch of dentistry deals with facial growth, development of the dentition and occlusion together with the prevention and correction of occlusal anomalies. This questionnaire study aimed to assess the overall frequencies of positive perception towards orthodontic treatment categorized according to age, sex, and area of living, and to identify barriers or negative perceptions preventing them from receiving orthodontic treatment. A google form for the questionnaire-based study on patient's percep Materials And Methods- tion for orthodontic treatment was created. The questionnaire included 8 questions, that assessed the demographics; age, sex, and general information about the orthodontic treatment and treatment duration. The questionnaire was circulated through various social media platforms, to be filled by participants who came to OPD of Department of Orthodontics in various hospitals and colleges in Central Travancore, as well as other private dental clinics for those who had a query about orthodontic treatment. The study revealed that aesthetics was the main c Results- oncern for getting orthodontic treatment whereas functional concern was less frequently reported. Patient believed that the treatment could make them more beautiful and confident. This survey-based questionnaire helped in assessing the patient perception and attitude to Conclusion: wards Orthodontic treatment. Aesthetic was the major issue for seeking orthodontic treatment, and also motivating factor for the start of treatment. Cost and duration of the treatment were major barrier for the start of the orthodontic treatment.