The psychosocial impact of self-perceived dental aesthetics amongst students studying at the University of Malta

Abstract

Purpose of the study: This study aims to assess whether the psychosocial impact of University of Malta (UM) students’ self-perceived dental aesthetics is affected by demographic factors and health behaviours. It also seeks to better understand students’ self-perception and identify high-risk groups for negative self-perception. Research Question: Do age, gender, area of study, health district, orthodontic treatment and face mask use influence the psychosocial impact of UM students’ self-perceived dental aesthetics? Methods: The validated Psychosocial Impact of Dental Aesthetics Questionnaire (PIDAQ) with 8 additional questions was used. Achievable overall PIDAQ score range was 23 to 115 (higher score indicating higher psychosocial impact). Data was collected from over-18 UM students through an online, anonymous questionnaire, between July 2022 and January 2023. Results: 158 students participated. Mean overall score was 54.3 (±21.0). 58.2% reported at least a moderate psychosocial impact, with only 5.7% reporting a severe impact. The ‘Psychological Impact’ subscale demonstrated the highest normalised mean score (0.426). Scores were significantly affected by gender (p=.043; Mann-Whitney test), with females scoring higher (mean 56.1 ±21.6), current orthodontic treatment (p=.009; Kruskal-Wallis test), and face mask wear (p<.001; Mann-Whitney test). Participants who believed face masks improved facial attractiveness had a high mean score (64.31 ±23.5). A weak, non-significant negative correlation with age was found (p=.061; Kendall’s tau-b correlation test), with younger participants reporting higher scores. Conclusions: Female and nonbinary participants showed heightened self-criticism and dissatisfaction. Current orthodontic treatment was linked to higher psychosocial impact, whilst completed treatment was linked to greater self-assurance. Participants who believed that face mask wear improved their attractiveness had higher scores. Recommendations and implications for practice: Future studies should explore the psychosocial effects of other treatments like veneers and tooth whitening. Clinical assessments could be simultaneously performed with questionnaires, allowing direct comparison. Finally, specialised support for transgender or nonbinary youths could be required.