[The psychosocial aspects in orthodontically treated and untreated adults with similar, clearly visible tooth malalignments].

A study was undertaken to compare the psychosocial aspects of orthodontic treatment or non-treatment of female adults, 25 of whom underwent treatment and 25 of whom did not, with similar, visible malocclusion. Interviews, for which 52 standardized questions were prepared in collaboration with a graduate psychologist, served as the methodological basis of the study. The results of the study indicate that in relation to the aesthetic aspects of orthodontic treatment, the treated group showed a high degree of sensitivity and self perception. Following orthodontic treatment members of this group exhibited a highly significant improvement in their subjective perception of the aesthetic aspects of their dental and facial appearance. In spite of the differences observed in the 2 groups, it nevertheless remains difficult to draw general conclusions or to recommend guidelines which would cover all cases. When the question is to orthodontically treat or not treat female adults, the answer rests with the individual patient.