Patient-Reported Outcomes of Orthodontic Treatment for Mild Crowding
Author Information
Author(s): Muacevic Alexander, Adler John R, Alhafi Ziad Mohamad, Hajeer Mohammad Y, Burhan Ahmad S, Latifeh Youssef, Ajaj Mowaffak A, Almusawi Alaa Oudah Ali, Zakaria Ahmad Salim
Primary Institution: Department of Orthodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Damascus
Hypothesis
How do patient-reported outcomes compare between modified aligner appliances and traditional fixed orthodontic appliances for treating mild crowding?
Conclusion
Patients experienced temporary discomfort, but the modified aligner appliance caused additional challenges with swallowing and speaking that resolved over time.
Supporting Evidence
- Patients reported lower pain levels with traditional fixed appliances compared to modified aligners.
- Swallowing and speech difficulties were significantly higher in the modified aligner group during the first two days.
- Discomfort levels peaked on the second day for both treatment types but decreased over time.
Takeaway
This study looked at how people felt during orthodontic treatment for crowded teeth. Both treatments caused some discomfort, but the new aligners made it harder to swallow and talk at first.
Methodology
This was a prospective cohort study involving 42 patients who were treated with either a modified aligner appliance or a traditional fixed orthodontic appliance, with outcomes measured using a visual analog scale.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to non-randomized assignment of patients to treatment groups based on preference.
Limitations
The study did not analyze differences in responses between male and female participants and focused solely on patient-reported outcomes.
Participant Demographics
42 participants (11 males, 31 females) with a mean age of 21.69 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
P < 0.008
Statistical Significance
p<0.008
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website