Level of Social Appearance Anxiety in Individuals with and without Alignment of Teeth

The aim of this study is to determine the level of social appearance anxiety in individuals with and without alignment of teeth and to demonstrate that orthodontic treatment is effective in reintegrating the individual into society, as well as in improving self-confidence communication skills, and self-esteem. Methods: The present study included 50 patients (24 males and 26 females) with dental alignment and 50 patients (28 males and 22 females) without dental alignment. The study was performed as an interview study using the Social Appearance Anxiety Scale, which measures emotional, cognitive, and behavioral anxiety felt by the individual due to his/her appearance. Hypotheses were proven by t-test and one-way analysis of variance using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences program. Results: The mean level of social appearance anxiety was higher in patients with dental misalignment (p<0.05). The result of t-test analysis revealed no significant difference between the scores of male and female participants (p>0.05). Conclusion: The level of social appearance anxiety increases in individuals with dental misalignment. However, it is independent from gender.