Importance of orthodontics and smile correction in teenagers: A survey

Background: Orthodontics plays a critical role in correcting malocclusion and enhancing dental function, aesthetics, and overall oral health. Awareness among teenagers about orthodontic treatment and its benefits is essential for promoting early intervention and informed decision-making. Aim: This study aimed to assess the level of awareness, perceptions, and attitudes of teenagers regarding orthodontic treatment and smile correction. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in May 2020 using a structured 14-item questionnaire distributed via Google Forms. A total of 201 teenage participants were selected through simple random sampling. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data with SPSS software, and only complete responses were included in the analysis. Results: Findings revealed that 83.6% of participants were aware of the role of orthodontics in correcting misaligned teeth, and 88.3% acknowledged the importance of a perfect smile for self-confidence. However, significant gaps in knowledge were observed: 56.9% were unaware of the treatment cost, and 52.5% were unaware of treatment duration. While 75% of respondents recognized the necessity of orthodontic treatment, many perceived it as costly (59.2%) and painful (70.1%). Positive perceptions included improved smile aesthetics (78.6%) and better oral function (32.3%). Conclusion: Although most teenagers value the aesthetic and functional benefits of orthodontic treatment, awareness regarding cost and duration remains limited. These findings highlight the need for increased educational efforts targeting adolescents to enhance their understanding of orthodontic care. Future studies should address the current limitations by involving a larger and more demographically diverse population.