Orthodontic Diagnostic Tools and Material Usage in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Introduction: The evaluation of changes in orthodontic practice over the years, is essential for defining treatment efficacy. Accordingly, shedding light on the profile of orthodontic practice in Saudi Arabia is crucial. Aim: To investigate current trends in orthodontic practice in Saudi Arabia and the factors affecting choices regarding materials and techniques among orthodontists. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from July 2019 to December 2019 at the College of Dentistry, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. An electronic survey of 29 objective questions was sent to 1,500 orthodontic members of the Saudi Orthodontic Society. The survey collected demographic data, diagnostic records and information on the fixed orthodontic appliances used by the respondents. Frequency and percentages were calculated for all variables. Chi-square test was used to determine the effects of factors, including years of experience and place of work, on the choice of diagnosis protocol and fixed appliance material, with the significance set at p-value ≤0.05. Results: Two hundred and nine respondents completed the survey. The respondents reported a highly significant use of computers for digitising cephalometric analysis, with the traditional method of obtaining study models reported as highly significant (p<0.001). Orthodontists routinely used the MBT preadjusted bracket system (52.6%) and performed direct bonding of the bracket (91.4%). Bonding of the first molars was preferred by 36.4% of the clinicians. Glass ionomer cement was the most frequently used band cement (55.5%), and the most popular archwire material was nickel–titanium shape memory. Clinicians with less than five years of experience used significantly more postcephalometric radiographs (p=0.006) and postorthodontic treatment models (p=0.028). Senior orthodontists (10-15 years of experience) had a higher use of indirect bonding techniques (p=0.05). Conclusion: This study provides information on the relevant aspects of orthodontists in Saudi Arabia in terms of their individuality, training and techniques used. The findings can be used as a reference for future national surveys to evaluate changes in orthodontic practice in Saudi Arabia.