Patient’s psychological response to twin-block therapy

Abstract

Aims and objectives: To determine the psychological response of the patient to twin-block therapy. To design and formulate a questionnaire to patient on twin-block therapy in the orthodontic clinic and the result will be evaluated. Materials and methods: A total of 14 patients within the age group of 12 to 14 years on twin-block therapy for treatment of skeletal class II malocclusion with a mandibular deficiency in the Department of Orthodontics were selected. A questionnaire was formulated at the end of twin-block therapy. The completed questionnaire was analyzed and the patient responses to the different aspects of twin-block treatment were recorded. Results: Of the 14 patients, 12 patients liked wearing the appliance. All the patients wore it comfortably full time. About 3 out of 14 had pain, 1 had ulcer, 9 14 had difficulty in eating, 6 patients had altered taste, and 3 had altered speech. A total of 13 patients observed improvement in lower jaw position. A total of 13 patients considered recommending the appliance to families and friends. Conclusion: The response of the patient to twin-block appliance was positive. The twin block appears to be well accepted by the patients despite their age. Clinical significance: Patient compliance directly affects the treatment outcome of the appliance.