Orthodontic Treatment Needs in Peruvian University Students
Author Information
Author(s): Bernabé Eduardo, Flores-Mir Carlos
Primary Institution: Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia
Hypothesis
The study aims to assess the normative and self-perceived need for orthodontic treatment in Peruvian young adults and determine if treatment need levels are influenced by sex, age, and socio-economic status.
Conclusion
Normative orthodontic treatment need was not matched by a similar level of self-perceived treatment need in these young adults.
Supporting Evidence
- 29.9% of students had a definite need for orthodontic treatment according to the DHC.
- Only 1.8% of students perceived themselves as needing orthodontic treatment.
- No significant differences were found in treatment need based on sex, age, or socio-economic status.
Takeaway
About one-third of the students need braces, but only a tiny number think they do. This shows that people might not see their teeth as needing help even when they do.
Methodology
281 first-year students were evaluated using the Dental Health Component and Aesthetic Component of the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need through structured interviews and clinical examinations.
Potential Biases
The study's findings may not generalize to all young adults due to the selective nature of the sample.
Limitations
The sample may not be representative of the general young adult population in Peru as it was drawn from a selective group of university students.
Participant Demographics
The sample consisted of 157 males (55.9%) and 124 females (44.1%) with a mean age of 18.1 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.403, 0.543, 0.247
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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