Psychological effects and perceptions of patients with different motivations before orthodontic treatment

Aim: The demand for orthodontic treatment arises from various motivations, including aesthetic, functional, or social concerns. This study aims to evaluate the psychosocial effects of individuals based on different motivational factors and to examine variations in their perceptions of treatment. Materials and Methods: This study included 453 individuals aged 12 to 35 who applied for orthodontic treatment at the Department of Orthodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Ordu University. Participants administered questionnaires assessing demographic information, orthodontic treatment motivations, and treatment perceptions. Treatment motivations were categorized into four main groups: (1) Improving occlusal function, (2) Enhancing dental aesthetics, (3) Improving facial aesthetics, and (4) Following recommendations from family, friends, or dentists. To evaluate the psychosocial impact of dental aesthetics, the Psychosocial Impact of Dental Aesthetics Questionnaire (PIDAQ) was utilized. For statistical analysis, NCSS (Number Cruncher Statistical System) 2007 (Kaysville, Utah, USA) software was employed. Descriptive statistical techniques (Mean, Standard Deviation, Median, Frequency, and Percentage) were applied, and Independent Sample T-tests and One-Way ANOVA were conducted for group comparisons. A significance threshold of p<0.01 and p<0.05 was set for statistical significance. Results: Motivations for orthodontic treatment were found to significantly influence individuals' psychosocial effects and aesthetic perceptions. Participants motivated by dental aesthetics had significantly higher scores in social impact (p=0.023), psychological impact (p=0.001), and aesthetic concern (p=0.001) subscales. In contrast, individuals seeking treatment for occlusal function improvement showed no significant differences in any PIDAQ subscale (p>0.05). Those who pursued treatment based on "following recommendations from family, friends, or dentists" exhibited lower scores in psychological impact (p=0.012) and aesthetic perception (p=0.001). Additionally, individuals who were highly interested in orthodontic treatment and eager to obtain information scored significantly higher in social impact (p=0.001) and psychological impact (p=0.001), whereas no significant effect was observed on dental self-confidence (p>0.05). Conclusion: The psychosocial effects of orthodontic treatment vary according to individuals' motivational factors. Those with aesthetic concerns demonstrated higher social impact, psychological impact, and aesthetic perception scores, while individuals motivated by functional concerns reported experiencing these effects less intensely. Considering individual and environmental factors in orthodontic treatment decision-making may enhance patient satisfaction and treatment adherence. Keywords: Orthodontic Treatment, Motivation, Aesthetic Perception