Studies from University College further understanding of malocclusion quality of care
December 2nd, 2008
2008 DEC 2 -- A report, 'Condition-specific impacts on quality of life attributed to malocclusion by adolescents with normal occlusion and Class I, II and III malocclusion,' is newly published data in Angle Orthodontist. "To compare the prevalence, intensity, and extent of condition-specific oral impacts on quality of life attributed to malocclusion by Brazilian adolescents with normal occlusion and those with Angle Class I, II, and III malocclusion. Four groups of 55 adolescents were configured such that each group represented normal occlusion, as well as Angle Class I, II, and III malocclusion," scientists in London, the United Kingdom report.
"No radiographs were taken. Adolescents aged 15 to 16 years were selected from those attending all secondary schools in Bauru (Sao Paulo, Brazil). The Oral Impacts on Daily Performances index was used to collect data on condition-specific impacts (CSIs) attributed to malocclusion. The prevalence, as well as the intensity and extent, of CSIs was compared among the four groups with the use of Chi-square and Kruskal-Wallis tests, respectively. Groups were comparable according to sex, age, and socioeconomic status. The prevalence of CSI was significantly different between groups (p=.039). Class II and III malocclusion groups reported a higher prevalence of CSI than those with normal occlusion and Class I malocclusion. However, the intensity and extent of CSI were not significantly different between groups. The prevalence, but not the intensity and extent, of CSIs attributed to malocclusion differed among groups with different malocclusions," wrote E. Bernabé and colleagues, University College.
The researchers concluded: "The present findings support the concept that malocclusion has physical, psychological, and social effects on quality of life."
Bernabé and colleagues published their study in Angle Orthodontist (Condition-specific impacts on quality of life attributed to malocclusion by adolescents with normal occlusion and Class I, II and III malocclusion. Angle Orthodontist, 2008;78(6):977-82).
For additional information, contact E. Bernabé, University College London, Dept. of Epidemiology and Public Health, London, UK.
The publisher's contact information for the journal Angle Orthodontist is: E H Angle Education Research Foundation, Inc., 1615 Beacon St., Newton N, MA 02468-1507, USA.
Keywords: United Kingdom, London, Malocclusion Quality of Care, Craniofacial, Genetics, Malocclusion, Quality of Care, Quality of Life.
This article was prepared by Life Science Weekly editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2008, Life Science Weekly via NewsRx.com.
