Investigation of patients' reported outcomes following treatment with aligners : patient satisfaction and self-reported awareness of aesthetics

Abstract

Aims: This research work aims to evaluate the level of satisfaction of patients who have been treated with transparent dental aligners in relation to self-report and aesthetics. Methodology and materials: A questionnaire was designed for patients who underwent CAT in order to collect their experience, satisfaction, and perception of aesthetics after completing the treatment. The questionnaire was distributed randomly in groups during four months on Facebook and Instagram platforms. After collection, the responses were grouped accordingly for analysis. Results: 194 participants were obtained, of which 180 were taken into consideration since the others did not meet the inclusion criteria. The ages with the most participation was the 18- to- 30year-old group. With respect to gender, participation by the female gender is the highest representation (63,3%) of the total sample. Europe was the location that obtained the most participation in the study. The group that obtained the most participants according to the duration of the treatment was the 22- to -32- month group, this same time range obtained the duration established by the professional before the treatment. 94,5% of the total sample expressed having undergone CAT for presenting aesthetic problems. 174 participants stated that they had obtained effective treatment to correct the problem they were experiencing. Aesthetic improvement was the contributing factor for 62,2% of the total sample to have performed CAT, followed by comfort during treatment with a percentage of 17,3%. 164 participants stated that they did not present occlusion problems once the treatment with CAT was completed. Only 26,2% stated that they had presented some type of sensitivity or discomfort after CAT. 159 participants expressed having similarity with the result obtained and the videos and photographs sent by the CA company. 86% of the total sample stated that they did not present relapse after orthodontic treatment, followed by 8% of the total sample stating that they had relapse in the lower anterior teeth. Conclusion: CAT is an aesthetic and effective alternative as an orthodontic treatment in which it meets the expectations of patients reporting satisfaction after undergoing treatment with CA. In addition, it can be said that patients are aware of how they perceive their aesthetics after treatment.