Perception of orthodontic care for medically compromised patients.

• Dr Mithil Nimesh Shah,*  
• Dr Tushar G Patil,  
• Dr Avinash Mahamuni,  
• Dr Rajlaxmi Rai,  
• Dr Supriya Vyavahare

Abstract

Abstract Background: Orthodontic therapy is known to enhance the general well-being and self-esteem of patients but people with Systemic illnesses necessitate taking specific precautions before, during, and/or after orthodontic treatment. With the advent of social media and increased awareness of facial appearance, all people including patients with compromised health are eager to seek orthodontic therapy. Aims & Objective: In this study aims to understand the perception of orthodontic care towards medically compromised patients in senior orthodontic students, postgraduate orthodontic students, and general dental practitioners. Material & Methods: 352 dental professionals—senior orthodontic practitioners, post-graduate orthodontic practitioners, general practitioners, and PG students of other specialties in India—were randomly chosen for this cross-sectional study to evaluate their perception of orthodontic care for patients with SHCN. Both online survey links and offline forms were distributed and collected over a period of six months throughout the network. The significance level for each test used in the data entry, collection, and analysis is P<0.005. Result: The overall knowledge of general practitioners and other specialty PG students was low. Although postgraduates from other branches were aware of a few scenarios, the senior orthodontics practitioners were aware of most situations due to their experience. There was no significant difference in the knowledge between senior orthodontic practitioners and postgraduate orthodontic students. Conclusion: The orthodontic supervision for medically compromised patients’ awareness has to be raised. There should be a lot more seminars and lectures, especially for dental graduates and postgraduates.

Keywords

(Keywords- Thalassemia, hemophilia, bronchial asthma, Infective Endocarditis, Hepatitis B)