Author/Authors :
Khanehmasjedi, Mashallah Department of Orthodontics - Dental School - Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz , Bassir, Leila Department of Pedodontics - Dental School - Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz , Haghighizade, Mohammad Hossein Department of Biostatistics - Health school - Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz
Abstract :
Background: In the contemporary orthodontics, the number of people who demand orthodontic treatment to improve their psychosocial
issues related to facial esthetic is constantly increasing. Even in treatment plans, appearance and esthetic gain more attention. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine the need for orthodontic treatment on the basis of the dental aesthetic index (DAI)
in the Iranian students of Ahvaz city. Material and Methods: This cross sectional study was performed on 900 students aged between 11 - 14 years (450 boys, 450 girls). Schools
were selected based on random cluster sampling from different parts of the city. Students/ who had or were having orthodontic treatment
including those on interceptive orthodontics, were excluded from the study. Two questionnaires were used; the first one included
different DAI criteria, and the second one included two questions about orthodontic treatment need and satisfaction of personal dental
appearance. The results were analyzed by Chi-Square and T test. Results: In 70.9% of the students, DAI score was 13 - 25, 19.2% of the samples had a DAI score of 26 - 30, the DAI score of 7.8% was 31 - 35, and in
2.1% the DAI score was greater than 35. The association between the DAI score and sex was not statistically significant (P = 0.778). In relation
to orthodontic treatment need, 44.8% of students answered positively, while in 55.2% the answer was negative. In relation to satisfaction
with appearance, 21% of the students were satisfied with their appearance, 59% were relatively satisfied, and 19.9% were not satisfied with
their appearance. The association between DAI score and the need for orthodontic treatment and satisfaction of dental appearance was
significant (P = 0.000). Conclusion: In comparison to other studies, the students in Iran (Ahvaz) have a better dental appearance and less need for orthodontic
treatment. Significantly positive correlations were found between the DAI and satisfaction of dental appearance, orthodontic treatment
need and student’s perception.
