Perception of Adolescents and Young Adults with Malocclusion on Fixed Orthodontic Treatment: A Qualitative Study

Background: Orthodontic treatment has a significant impact on the quality of life and self-esteem in adolescents and young adults.However, there is limited qualitative research looking at the outcomes of treatment from the patient's perspective.It is important to have a better understanding of these outcomes to meet expectations and enhance their satisfaction.Aim: To evaluate the perceptions of adolescents and young adults about fixed orthodontic treatment and the barriers that prevent them from undergoing orthodontic treatment.Materials and methods: Adolescents (13-18 years) and young adults (18-25 years) were interviewed using semistructured questionnaires.In-depth face-to-face interviews were conducted to assess their perception of orthodontic treatment.The interviews were audio recorded and then transcribed verbatim, and content thematic analysis was performed using a framework approach.Results: Based on interviews with the patients who underwent orthodontic treatment, five themes emerged as follows: (1) Reasons for starting/ undergoing orthodontic treatment, (2) Problems faced during orthodontic treatment, (3) Maintenance of oral hygiene, (4) Expenses incurred, and (5) Change in appearance.Two themes were derived from the participants who did not undergo orthodontic treatment: (1) Reasons for not accepting orthodontic treatment and (2) Opinions about undergoing treatment in future.Conclusion: Adolescents and young adults who underwent orthodontic procedures report better oral hygiene, improved mastication, and esthetics.Conversely, those who did not undergo orthodontic treatment were not aware of the benefits of the treatment.