Comparison of knowledge, attitude and practices of untreated and treated orthodontic subjects

Facial esthetics has been suggested as one of the most important variables in terms of an individual's own self-esteem and social acceptance. With a growing trend toward a beautiful face, and a perfect smile the profession of dentistry has become a challenge. The knowledge and attitude of the people have changed toward the field of dentistry. There have been lots of studies conducted on the attitude of the patients toward dentistry. The present study was conducted to evaluate and compare the attitude, knowledge, and the practices among a group of treated and untreated patients.A questionnaire consisting of 20 questions regarding the knowledge, attitude toward treatment and orthodontist, and oral hygiene practices was prepared and 200 subjects (100 treated and 100 untreated) were asked to complete it.Previously treated subjects were found to have a significantly more positive attitude toward treatment, had a better knowledge regarding treatment, and followed better oral hygiene practices.