Improving Patient Compliance in Orthodontic Practice

Patient noncompliance is a limiting factor in the conversion of accurate orthodontic treatment plans to excellent treatment results. Patient compliance depends on the duration, frequency, and complexity of the required behaviors. Because orthodontic treatment generally extends over a period of 12 to 36 months, compliance levels have to be sustained over this period of time. Past research has focused on the prediction of patient compliance. The results of these studies have largely been inconclusive and inconsistent. One reason for the inability of practitioners to clinically apply these results is related to the largely demographic nature of the variables assessed. In most instances these demographic factors cannot be modified. The orthodontist's focus should be on prevention and management rather than prediction of the noncompliance problem. This article presents a proposal for improving and managing patient compliance based on a patient-centered approach. In this model, the practitioner would prescribe treatment plans based on individual patient expectations, priorities, and capabilities. In addition, the significance of the doctor/patient/parent relationship in this model is emphasized. (Semin Orthod 2000;6:237-241.) Copyright © 2000 by W,B. Saunders Company