Changes in oral health-related quality of life reports in children during orthodontic treatment and the possible role of self-esteem: a follow-up study.

OBJECTIVES As a continuation of a baseline study on oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) and the role of self-esteem (SE), the aim of this research is to investigate the changes in OHRQoL reports in children during orthodontic treatment and the influence of SE. SUBJECTS AND METHODS This longitudinal study comprised 109 children (50 boys and 59 girls) aged 11-16 years, all receiving orthodontic treatment. Questionnaires were administered at baseline and at follow-up (1 year after start of orthodontic treatment). OHRQoL was assessed by the child perception questionnaire (CPQ). The Dutch adaptation of the Harter's Self-Perception Profile for Adolescents was used to assess SE and the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need defined the need for treatment. The questionnaires also included questions related to motivation for treatment. Spearman correlations, Wilcoxon signed rank tests and Mann-Whitney U-tests were performed. RESULTS A significant increase in total CPQ score was found during orthodontic treatment. This increase was also significant for the subdomains functional limitations, oral symptoms, and social well-being, whereas for the subdomain emotional well-being a non-significant decrease in CPQ score was found. Children with high SE at baseline showed significantly lower variability in OHRQoL measures at follow-up. CONCLUSIONS OHRQoL deteriorates in children during orthodontic treatment. There is evidence that SE can be a protective factor in OHRQoL during orthodontic treatment.