Adherence in adult orthodontic settings: Understanding orthodontists’ predictors

The objective of this study was to delve into predictors of adherence in adult orthodontic patients as stated by orthodontists in Saudi Arabia. Ninety-one orthodontists from Saudi Arabia completed a questionnaire in relation to the importance and frequency of use of predictors of adherence. In this cross-sectional quantitative and exploratory study, orthodontists were requested to rate the predictors of adherence on a five-point Likert scale. The questionnaire in this study was categorized into four sections such as (1) evaluation – their opinion on the importance of predictor in the assessment of patient adherence, (2) application – scope of use of each predictor in the assessment of adherence in the routine practice, (3) open-ended questions to amass information about other apparent predictors of adherence, and (4) demographics. Mixed and variable responses were obtained in terms of the importance and extent of application of predictors in assessing patient adherence. The survey revealed the most important predictors for adherence that included patient’s adherence to appointments and their cooperation in handling dental appliances, and maintenance of oral hygiene. However, in actual practice, orthodontists were frequently implementing factors such as the patient to keep appointments, the patient is observed to be involved in treatment, and the patient is observed to be enthusiastic about treatment. Through the open-ended questions, multiple factors were reported that need to be explored further. However, the remaining factors reported for adherence portrayed varied patterns. Predictors of adherence were reported with varying extent of consistency among orthodontists in Saudi Arabia. However, adherence to appointment, co-operation in handling of appliances, and oral hygiene emerged as the most significant factors by the orthodontists for adherence in cases of adult patients.