Orthodontic Treatment Adherence among Local Patients: Key Influences

Orthodontic Appointment Adherence and Influencing Factors

Abstract

Background: Patient commitment to orthodontic treatment is essential for achieving the greatest outcomes. Missed appointments can prolong treatment duration, increase risk of complications, and compromise results. Despite its significance, local data on adherence patterns and contributing factors remains limited.Objective:To determine the frequency of adherence to orthodontic appointments among local orthodontic patients and to identify the key factors associated with irregular attendance.Methods:This cross-sectional research comprised 231 individuals getting orthodontic treatment at the Orthodontics Department of de'Montmorency College of Dentistry in Lahore. Data was collected via structured questionnaires and clinical attendance records. Adherence was categorized as always attending, sometimes attending, or rarely attending. Demographic and behavioural variables—including age, gender, education level, oral hygiene habits, motivation, and treatment duration—were analysed using Chi-square tests to identify associations with attendance. Results: The mean age of participants was 12.44 ± 4.64 years; 56.7% were females. Only 9.1% always attended their appointments, while 44.2% sometimes attended and 46.8% rarely attended. Significant associations were found between better attendance and female gender (p = 0.011), age under 12 years (p = 0.001), and higher educational level (p = 0.001). Poor oral hygiene also correlated with irregular attendance (p = 0.024). No significant association was observed with motivation, brushing frequency, treatment duration, or reason for treatment. Conclusion: Adherence to orthodontic appointments was suboptimal in the studied population. Younger age, female gender, better education, and good oral hygiene were linked to improved attendance. Identifying and addressing these modifiable factors can enhance compliance and improve treatment outcomes.