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Table 3 Benefits of orthodontic treatment as perceived by parents of disabled (n = 60) and healthy children (n = 60)

From: Orthodontic treatment for disabled children: a survey of parents’ attitudes and overall satisfaction

 

Disabled children n (%)

Healthy children n (%)

P value

You wish to enhance the appearance of the teeth and face

  

0.228

 A lot

41 (68.3%)

30 (50.0%)

 A little

12 (20.0%)

19 (31.6%)

 Not concerned

7 (11.6%)

11 (18.3%)

Improvement in quality of life

  

0.536

 Yes

50 (83.3%)

47 (78.3%)

 No

4 (6.6%)

6 (10.0%)

 Don’t know

6 (10.0%)

8 (13.3%)

Improvement in social acceptance

  

0.016

 Yes

47 (78.3%)

33 (55.0%)

 No

7 (11.6%)

10 (16.6%)

 Don’t know

6 (10.0%)

17 (28.3%)

Improvement in social integration

  

0.006

 Yes

43 (71.6%)

33 (55.0%)

 No

10 (16.6%)

6 (10.0%)

 Don’t know

7 (11.6%)

21 (35.0%)

Other reasons for seeking treatment

  

0.002

 To improve dental health

32 (53.3%)

45 (75.0%)

 To improve chewing

15 (25.0%)

14 (23.3%)

 To improve speech

13 (21.6%)

1 (1.6%)