PREDICTING FACTORS OF ORTHODONTIC PAIN - A SURVEY

Aim:To evaluate pain and discomfort experience by patients undergoing orthodontic treatment with different appliances after insertion and factors associated with orthodontic pain and to determine the factors associated with orthodontic pain and its effects on the quality of life of patients. Background: Fear of pain during dental treatment is one of the major factors which prevent a patient from seeking orthodontic treatment. Pain and discomfort are commonly associated with orthodontic movement of teeth. Studies have shown that approximately 95% of orthodontic patients complained of pain during orthodontic treatment with 10% interrupting their treatment due to pain experienced during treatment. Pain is highly subjective as it may differ from one patient to another, in which some patients experience high levels of pain while others complain of just mild discomfort. It is very important for dentists to follow the progress of adaptation after insertion of new appliances and examine any pain or discomfort experienced by the patients. Materials and Methods:A questionnaire-based study was done among dental students, practitioners and patients. A total of 100 participants took part in the survey. The participants were divided into 2 groups, Group 1 and 2. Group 1 consists of dental students and practitioners while Group 2 consists of dental patients. Each group was provided with a list of 10 questions related to pain during orthodontic treatment. Data was collected and statistic analysis was done. Results:Moderate pain is most probably experienced by patients (62%). Sensory perception of intensity and discomfort is considered as the main factor (52%). Mold pain is commonly reported (44%). Most cases begin within 24 hours (64%) and usually subside within 24 hours (45%). Pain sensitivity is commonly associated with orthodontic pain (44%). Tests on anxiety level and dental fear is usually preferred (52%). Patient?s compliance remains good (36%). NSAIDs is the best treatment of orthodontic pain (64%). Patients are well-informed of the whole procedure (82%). 8 is the moderate score of orthodontic pain (56%). Patients experience pain within 2 to 3 days (72%) with complains of moderate pain (94%). Most patients are relaxed and calm before treatment (78%) and some without negative experiences with dental procedure previously (76%). Patients are aware of possible pain and discomfort (86%). Some are prone to react to pain (74%) although most are well informed of the whole procedure (80%). Patients are still willing to proceed with the treatment despite having pain or discomfort. Conclusion: Orthodontic pain has always been a great concern for most dentists all over the world. It is very important for every dentist to have a basic knowledge and understanding of orthodontic pain in order to overcome this condition in a clinical setting.