Introduction: General dental practitioners and other non-orthodontic specialists must take on the role of orthodontic health educators. It is their responsibility to recognize, diagnose, and manage or refer abnormalities in developing dentition. Therefore, a strong understanding of orthodontics is essential for providing proper counseling and referrals.
Aim and Objective: This study determines and evaluates the knowledge and attitude of general dentists and non-orthodontic specialists towards early orthodontic treatment. The study objectively assesses the knowledge of orthodontic treatment among general dentists and non-orthodontic specialists and rigorously compares the knowledge of orthodontic treatment between the two groups.
Materials and Methods: The study included 308 dental professionals divided into three groups: general practitioners, non-orthodontic postgraduate students, and non-orthodontic specialists. The questionnaire had 20 closed-ended, multiple-choice questions, covering general information and participants' attitudes and awareness of orthodontic principles and practices.
Results: The study emphasizes the necessity for improved education on orthodontic treatment concepts for general dentists and non-orthodontic specialists.
Conclusion: Practitioners must participate in continuing education programs to stay updated on the latest developments in orthodontic diagnosis, functional appliance therapy, recognition and identification of dentofacial deformities in growing children and adults, intervention, application of functional jaw orthopedics, and implementing retention protocols after orthodontic treatment. These programs are crucial for ensuring that practitioners provide meticulous care to their patients.
Keywords: Early orthodontic treatment, General dentist, Knowledge, Non-orthodontic specialist, Questionnaire.
