Is orthodontic treatment associated with changes in self-esteem during adolescence? A longitudinal study

Abstract

Objective: This study explored the association between history of orthodontic treatment and changes in self-esteem among British adolescents. Design: Birth cohort study. Setting: United Kingdom. Participants: Data from 2600 participants of the British Cohort Study were analysed. Methods: Participants completed the Lawrence Self-Esteem Questionnaire (LAWSEQ) at the ages of 10 and 16 years. The change in LAWSEQ score over six years was the outcome. Participants were divided into two groups according to parental reports of orthodontic treatment at the same ages. The association between history of orthodontic treatment and six-year changes in LAWSEQ score was tested in linear regression models adjusting for demographic factors (adolescents’ sex and ethnicity), family socioeconomic status (parental social class and mothers’ education), perceived orthodontic treatment need and baseline LAWSEQ score. Results: According to parental reports, 8% of participants had a history of orthodontic treatment. The mean LAWSEQ score at baseline was 13.7 (95% confidence interval [CI] 13.6–13.9) and increased significantly over time by 1.7 units (95% CI 1.5–1.9). Orthodontic treatment history was positively, albeit not significantly, associated with change in LAWSEQ score (coefficient: 0.08, 95% CI –0.56 to 0.72). The direction of the association reversed but remained non-significant after adjustment for all confounders (coefficient: –0.19; 95% CI –0.68 to 0.30). Improvements in self-esteem were positively associated with mothers’ education (coefficient: 0.85; 95% CI 0.09–1.61) and negatively associated with self-esteem at baseline (coefficient –0.79; 95% CI –0.82 to –0.75). Conclusion: This six-year longitudinal study provided no evidence for an association between history of orthodontic treatment and changes in self-esteem during adolescence.

The association between self-esteem and aesthetic component of smile among adolescents

“…These findings are in accordance with other studies whose findings led to the conclusion that an improvement in self-esteem is among the most noteworthy outcomes of orthodontic treatment [ 6 ] and that enhanced physical attractiveness resulting from orthodontic treatment positively impacts self-esteem [ 17 ]. However, some studies did not provide evidence that there is a connection between orthodontic treatment and changes in self-esteem during adolescence [ 18 ].…”

Potential Impact of Long COVID-19 on Orthodontic Treatment

“…Orthodontic treatment (OT) is commonly performed in children, adolescents, and adults for the improvement of dentofacial esthetics, oral function, and occlusion. 22 23 Since OT and LC are prevalent in the general population (including both growing patients and adults), it is reasonable to assume that a growing number of individuals with LC are currently undergoing or will undergo OT. It has been reported that patients who experience mild or even asymptomatic COVID-19 infection exhibit a prolonged inflammatory and stress response even after 40 days postinfection.…”

Impact of clear aligners on plaque and periodontal health

“…The goal of orthodontic therapy is to rectify malocclusion, which is gaining popularity since it can enhance masticatory function, dental aesthetics, psychological and social wellness, and overall and oral health. 1 In addition to its advantages, orthodontic treatment carries some dangers and consequences, just like any other kind of medical care.…”