Perception of Pain during Orthodontic Treatment among the General Public Undergoing and Not Undergoing Orthodontic Treatment

BACKGROUND Orthodontic treatment provides better alignment of teeth and improves occlusal and temporomandibular joint relationship. It also improves facial aesthetics, phonetics thereby improving the overall well-being of the individual. It is common to see patients to have dull aching pain and mild discomfort while undergoing orthodontic treatment. The main cause of pain during orthodontic treatment is the application of forces to activate tooth movement, placement of separators, and while debonding. The aim of the study was to evaluate the perception of pain in orthodontic treatment among school children who are undergoing and not undergoing orthodontic treatment. METHODS The school students were divided in to two groups. Group 1 consists of students who are undergoing orthodontic treatment and group 2 consists of students who are not undergoing orthodontic treatment. Questionnaire forms will be given to both the groups. Questionnaire forms were different in both the groups. RESULTS The school student's contest of two groups: group 1 consist of students who are undergoing orthodontic treatment and group 2 consist of students who are not undergoing orthodontic treatment. Questionnaire forms will be given to both the group of students. CONCLUSIONS This study helped in understanding the perception of pain which is felt by the school students who are undergoing orthodontic treatment and also the perception of pain related to orthodontic treatment who are not undergoing orthodontic treatment. Students who are not undergoing orthodontic treatment has a strong perception towards pain during orthodontic treatment and it is the role of the dentist to create more awareness among the public about the real facts about the orthodontic treatment to prevent the mental stigma about pain. This will help the patients especially school going children to show positive approach in undergoing orthodontic treatment.