Psychosocial factors associated with orthodontic and orthognathic surgical treatment

Recognition of the potential repercussions associated with malocclusion has encouraged investigations aimed at understanding the psychosocial outcomes associated with orthodontics and orthognathic surgery. Of particular interest are the benefits of treatment on judgements of self-image and interpersonal relationships. This article examines patients' adjustment to dentofacial malrelations in an attempt to assess their psychologic wellbeing before treatment. This discussion is followed by a review of the psychosocial benefits and negative effects associated with orthodontics and orthognathic surgery. Although dentofacial deviations can have some social disadvantages, candidates for corrective treatment appear to be well-adjusted before treatment. Long-term benefits in self-concept, body image, and interpersonal relations after treatment are variable, with larger psychosocial changes generally reported by orthognathic surgery patients than by patients who receive orthodontic treatment alone. (Semin Orthod 2000;6:259-269.)