Combining Normative and Psychosocial Perceptions for Assessing Orthodontic Treatment Needs

Abstract

Whereas perceptions of malocclusion by the public are mainly subjective, currently orthodontic treatment needs are predominantly determined using normative need. There are considerable differences between normative and subjective perceptions of orthodontic need. Yet clinical measures determine current provision of orthodontic services, whereas subjective oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) measures are seldom used and play a small part in need assessment despite predicting perceived need. The sociodental approach to assessing orthodontic treatment needs overcomes deficiencies of the sole use of normative need. It is a gradual integration process, estimating orthodontic needs by combining normative and psychosocial perspectives, as well as considering behavioral factors affecting outcomes of orthodontic treatment and scientific evidence about the effectiveness of interventions. To be appropriately used in needs assessment, an OHRQoL measure should provide condition‐specific estimates of the impact of malocclusion on daily life. The sociodental approach attempts to replicate the characteristics of good clinical practice using a structured, rational, and coherent system for assessing orthodontic needs and, therefore, is a useful tool in planning oral health services.

Normative and perceived orthodontic treatment need of senior year dental students

“…This study corroborates the opinion that normative and perceived orthodontic treatment need to represent different standpoints and should always be considered before treatment prescriptions are given (33). Further studies comparing self-perception and assessment of treatment need by dental students, house officers, non-orthodontic residents and consultants are necessary.…”

Smoking status and oral health-related quality of life among adults in the United Kingdom

“…propensity, can be used to access the oral care need of individuals and populations in general. 21,22 In the past three decades, researchers have been trying to comprehend which factors influence the subjective perception of quality of life. Many studies have successfully addressed the relationship between OHRQoL and health determinants including clinical conditions, socio-demographic and behavioural factors.…”

Association between chronic periodontitis and oral health-related quality of life in Sri Lankan adults

“…Oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) is a multi‐dimensional construct that includes a subjective evaluation of the individual's oral health and physical and psycho‐social well‐being. It has received increased attention in recent years and researchers have recommended that normative clinical measures be complemented with OHRQoL measures in treatment‐needs assessments and in planning oral health services. Also, OHRQoL has been used as an outcome measure to determine the effectiveness of treatment.…”