Author:

• Sílvia Helena de Carvalho Sales Peres - Sales-Peres, S. H. C. - Bauru, São Paulo - Universidade de São Paulo - <shcperes@usp.br>

Thematic Area:

Não Categorizado

Abstract:

Objectives- The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between malocclusion and self-perception of oral appearance/function in 12/15-year-old Brazilian adolescents. Method- The cluster sample consisted of 717 teenagers attending 24 urban public (n=611) and 5 rural public (n=107) schools in Maringá/PR/Brazil. A calibrated dentist performed the examination in an outdoor setting, in accordance with WHO recommendations. A parental semi-structured questionnaire was applied to adolescents to collect information on esthetic perception level and oral variables related to oral health. Malocclusion was measured using the Dental Aesthetic Index (DAI). Only the independent variables with p<0.05 in the univariate analyses were selected for the multiple logistic regression analyses using the stepwise procedure. The adjusted Odds Ratios (OR), their 95% confidence intervals and significance levels were estimated. Results- Multiple logistic regression confirmed that for the 12-year-old sample, missing teeth (OR=2.865) and presence of openbite (open occlusal relationship) (OR=2.865) were risk indicators for speech capability. With regard to the 15-year-old sample, presence of mandibular overjet (horizontal overlap) (OR=4.016) was a risk indicator for speech capability and molar relationship (OR=1.661) was a risk indicator for chewing capability. Conclusions- The impact of malocclusion on adolescents’ life was confirmed in this study. Speech and chewing capability were associated with orthodontic deviations, which should be taken into consideration in oral health planning, to identify risk groups and improve community health services.

Keywords: Malocclusion, Teenager health, Self Concept, Oral health.

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