Subjective Opinions of Dental Attractiveness and Orthodontic Treatment Need among Nigerian Adolescents

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of this study was to evaluate the opinions of a cross-section of 12-18 year-old Nigerians about dental aesthetics and to compare the report with their self-perceived need for orthodontic treatment. Methods: A structured questionnaire was administered to 612 12-18 year-old Nigerian adolescents who were randomly selected from 6 secondary schools in South-South Nigeria to assess their opinions of dental aesthetics, whilst the Aesthetic Component (AC) of the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN) was used to assess their self-perceived orthodontic treatment need. Results: Majority (78.1%) of the population expressed satisfaction with the arrangement of their teeth, whilst 82% did not perceive any need for orthodontic treatment (AC Grades 1-4). Their self-perceived orthodontic treatment need was found to increase as their satisfaction with the arrangement of their teeth decreased. Conclusions and recommendations: Although majority of the adolescents realized the importance of dental aesthetics, there was a general low awareness of the presence of their malocclusions. We are recommending that populations in this area be more enlightened on the presence and treatment of malocclusion.