Dento-facial aesthetics in the eyes of adolescent patients during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Dental malocclusions are considered a major issue in adolescence, and are often the main reason for which patients go to the dentist. Adolescents′ option to start an orthodontic treatment is questioned in the light of the restrictions imposed in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic. Aim of the study: The aim of this study was to assess adolescents’ perceptions of facial aesthetics and the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the decision to start an orthodontic treatment during this time, when a number of restrictions, such as face mask wearing, were imposed. Material and methods: A 15 items questionnaire was applied in the city of Oradea, Romania and distributed to orthodontic adolescent patients, with a previously diagnosed malocclusion, with ages between 12 and 17.9 years. The questionnaires were correctly filled in by 76 participants. Results: Patients tend to be affected by the aspect of their teeth (50%), and most patients considered that the aspect of their teeth forces them to socialize less (44.8%), and to avoid smiling (44.8%). 39.4% of the respondents considered that wearing a face mask is useful because it covers all dental malocclusions, and 31.6% of the respondents were not bothered that they had to wear a face mask. Conclusions: Patients declared that they were affected by the aspect of their teeth, and have a generally positive attitude regarding face masks.