Study of Patient's Self-Image during Orthodontic Treatment

摘要

There has been little research done that has attempted to study the patient's self-image and record what changes occur with a correction of the patient's malocclusion through orthodontic treatment. A study was done to determine what changes occur in the orthodontic patient's self-image during orthodontic treatment. A questionnaire requiring responses pertaining to self-image was distributed to three hundred sixty 11-19-year old patients in various phases of pre-treatment and retention. The data was collected and statistically analyzed. Variables of age, sex, and time in treatment were examined. Findings indicated a definite positive effect upon the orthodontic patient's self-image. Significant differences in response levels of different age groups, time in treatment groups and males and females were found. The effects on self-image were the largest during the first year of active treatment and remained at a higher level throughout treatment. The positive self-image levels continued through the retention phase of treatment.