Journal of AdvancedMedical and Dental Sciences Research

Background: The specialty of orthodontics relates to facial and occlusal development and involves the supervision, interception, and correction of occlusal and dentofacial anomalies known as malocclusion. It is becoming important to identify the awareness levels of young population with respect to oral health and the orthodontics treatment because these are advantageous in preventing further malocclusion complication. Hence; the present study was undertaken among rural population in Karnataka for assessing awareness about Orthodontics as a speciality. Materials & methods: A total of 100 subjects of rural population were enrolled. A questionnaire was fabricated and was given to all the subjects. Questionnaire consisted of questions for assessing awareness about orthodontic as a speciality. The survey instrument, a self-administered questionnaire, was specifically designed for examining the respondent's knowledge of orthodontics as a specialty and included questions such as who is an orthodontist, what procedures are carried out in an orthodontic clinic, and the effect of abnormally arranged teeth on well-being. Results: Out of 100 participants, 86 participants had a dental visit in the last one year. 49 percent of the participants were aware about the term “orthodontic”. 10 percent of the participants have received orthodontic treatment during their lifetime. 65 percent of the participants had any information about orthodontic as a speciality. Conclusion: Rural population had inadequate knowledge and awareness about the speciality “orthodontics”.