[Evaluation of motivational factors of adolescent patients for orthodontic treatment using the Q methodology].

Abstract

The management of adolescents in the orthodontic practice remains a challenge in terms of motivation and adherence to treatment. Some factors seem to be of paramount importance in the success of treatment. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the motivational factors of adolescent patients seeking orthodontic treatment using the Q methodology. After interviews with adolescent patients, 32 reasons for seeking orthodontic treatment were identified and ranked in order of importance on a Q methodology grid by 40 patients aged 10 to 16 years. Factor analysis was used to classify the patients' views into groups of shared opinions. Four motivating factors were identified in adolescent patients. However, the factor « the advice of general Dentist and the aesthetic need » was the most important. An effective treatment strategy can be chosen for each patient according to their motivational profile; this could therefore improve their cooperation and guarantee a more satisfactory therapeutic outcome.