Assess Knowledge of early Orthodontic Problems among Pediatric Dentists

Abstract

Background: Early orthodontic treatment, or interceptive treatment, is aimed at halting or redirecting the development of malocclusions in pediatric patients. Early intervention can enhance aesthetics, improve function, and reduce the complexity of future malocclusion treatments. General dental practitioners (GDPs) and pediatric dentists (PDs) play a key role in the early identification and management of these issues, but research on their knowledge and practices regarding early orthodontic problems is limited. This study investigates the knowledge, practice, and challenges faced by GDPs, PDs, and postgraduate pediatric dentistry students (PGPDSs) in diagnosing and managing early orthodontic problems.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 182 participants, including 133 GDPs, 23 PDs, and 26 PGPDSs, selected from public healthcare facilities and academic institutions. A self-administered, anonymous questionnaire was used to assess participants' knowledge of early orthodontic issues and practices in treatment and referral. The questionnaire also included case studies for evaluating participants' ability to identify and manage early orthodontic problems. Knowledge and practices were categorized into good, average, or poor based on predefined scores.
Results: The response rate was 87.4%, with 159 completed questionnaires. Knowledge of early orthodontic issues was moderate, with GDPs scoring the lowest in identifying and timing treatment. Although most participants demonstrated good practices in immediate treatment and referrals, all groups showed poor performance in selecting appropriate orthodontic appliances. GDPs had the lowest scores for appliance selection. Challenges identified included a lack of clinical experience and insufficient knowledge for treating certain cases, particularly in GDPs.
Conclusion: Knowledge of early orthodontic issues was moderate across all groups, with GDPs exhibiting the lowest levels. While the practice of immediate treatment and referrals was generally good, the selection of appropriate appliances was poorly performed. The lack of confidence, particularly due to limited clinical experience, was the primary barrier to providing early orthodontic care. There was no significant correlation between knowledge and practice. Addressing these gaps through further education and clinical experience may improve the management of early orthodontic problems.