The Psychological Impact of Anterior Teeth Caries and Treatment Needs Among Adults at King Saud University Clinics in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Introduction Aesthetic dentistry has become increasingly important, as a smile is key to social and emotional well-being. Dental caries can greatly and persistently diminish overall oral health-related quality of life, impacting one's capacity to engage socially and maintain emotional health. The study aims to assess the psychological impact of anterior teeth caries and restorative treatment needs. Methodology A cross-sectional study was conducted at King Saud University clinics. The questionnaire used in this study was developed based on previous research and structured into three main domains: demographic data, psychosocial impact of dental aesthetics, and restorative treatment needs assessment. The statistical analysis of the study's Inter-rater reliability was assessed using the Fleiss kappa coefficient. The intra-rater reliability was evaluated for all raters using Cohen's kappa, with each rater showing almost perfect agreement in dental caries and treatment option measures (p < 0.001). Results The participants who perceived the presence of anterior caries had significantly worse overall psychological impact scores than those who did not perceive having anterior caries. The overall Psychosocial Impact of the Dental Aesthetics Questionnaire (PIDAQ) score shows a more negative psychosocial impact of dental aesthetics on those needing indirect restoration than those needing direct restorations. Conclusions Anterior teeth caries significantly impacts individuals' psychological well-being, particularly in emotional and social aspects. Those perceiving the presence of anterior caries experience more significant emotional distress and social implications. The need for restorative treatment, especially indirect restoration, is associated with higher psychosocial impact and lower dental self-confidence.