Evaluation and comparative assessment of clear aligners and conventional appliances on oral health-related quality of life in pediatric populations: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

This study was designed to evaluate and compare the usefulness of clear aligners and conventional appliances on Oral Health-Related Quality of Life (OHRQoL) in pediatric population. Emphasis was placed on the relative benefits and implications of employing clear aligners owing to their escalating prevalence and acceptability. The study participants were divided into four groups: Clear Aligner Group (CAG), Conventional Appliance Group (ConAG), Malocclusion Control Group (MCG), and Normal Control Group (NCG). Parameters including sociodemographic indicators and daily routines were assessed. OHRQoL was evaluated via the Child Perceptions Questionnaire (CPQ). Psychological conditions were assessed through the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS). Statistical differences were found between the four groups regarding CPQ subscales and total scores (p < 0.05). CAG was better than ConAG (p < 0.05) regarding the scores of functional limitations, emotional and social well-being, and total score, however no significant difference was discovered in the oral symptoms scores (p = 0.62). Moreover, all the treatment groups had worse OHRQoL compared to NCG (p < 0.05). Malocclusions and their treatments did not increase the psychological distress as per the DASS results. A novel correlation between the excessive tooth brushing and reduced OHRQoL was also observed (p < 0.05). The study herein emphasized the benefits of clear aligners in children and adolescents with OHRQoL. It was highlighted that the clear aligners had potential and were preferred for the adolescent orthodontic treatment.

Keywords: Clear aligners; Conventional appliances; Fixed metal braces; Functional appliances; Oral health-related quality of life; Orthodontic treatment; Pediatric population.