Impact of malocclusion on self-esteem (SE) and orthognathic quality of life (OQOL) amongst dental undergraduate students

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Original Article

Author Details : Kahkeshan Nausheen, Sayyeda Madiha, Harneet Kaur*

Volume : 8, Issue : 1, Year : 2020

Article Page : 14-17

https://doi.org/10.18231/j.idjsr.2020.003

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Abstract

Introduction: While malocclusion exerts both physical and emotional effects on laypersons, with increasing awareness of malocclusion and its aesthetic impairment, there must be psychological impact of malocclusion amongst students entering into a dental school.  The null hypothesis proposed was increasing grades of the course results in higher self esteem and poorer quality of life amongst students pursuing on undergraduate course in dentistry.
Aim: The aim was to determine the relationship between severity of malocclusion, self esteem (SE) and orthognathic quality of life (OQoL) among female dental undergraduate students.
Material and Methods: The study sample was divided batchwise into four groups according to the grades. Written questionnaires for SE and OQoL were given to 83 female undergraduate students with no craniofacial anomalies, medical problems, and history of previous orthodontic treatment. To determine the severity of malocclusion, the subjects were later examined for Dental Aesthetic Index (DAI) score. Descriptive statistics for DAI, SE and OQOL were performed and elements of each group were compared using ANOVA.  Spearman Rank Correlation coefficient was done to measure the level of association between the variables.
Results & Discussion:  While 3rd year students presented with higher DAI and least OQOL score, there was a statistically significant negative correlation between DAI and OQOL, indicating more negative psychological impact of malocclusion with learning. Interns had higher SE and maximum OQoL. ANOVA results showed only statistically significant difference between the groups for SE indicating more armour propre with training and maturity. However, no significant correlation was noted between SE and OQol.
Conclusions: Malocclusion does hamper the quality of life but increasing grades and cumulative understanding also influence the self esteem amongst dental undergraduates.

Keywords: Malocclusion, Self esteem, Orthognathic quality of life, Dental Aesthetic Index, Rosenberg self esteem scale.

How to cite : Nausheen K, Madiha S , Kaur H, Impact of malocclusion on self-esteem (SE) and orthognathic quality of life (OQOL) amongst dental undergraduate students. Int Dent J Stud Res 2020;8(1):14-17

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