Controlling Orthodontic Pain from Orthodontists Perspectives-A Survey
Author(s): Mohammed Nahidh* and Mohammed Mahdi Lafta Alsaadi
Abstract
Background: The aim of this study was to determine the most preferred approach for orthodontic pain control adopted by a sample of Iraqi orthodontists.
Materials and methods: An electronic survey using Google Forms was conducted from the 7th of March till the end of April 2021. The survey consisted of three options according to the preferred approach used by Iraqi orthodontists to minimize orthodontic pain. Data were collected and Pearson's chi-squared test was applied to determine the gender difference.
Results: The response rate was 70%. More than half of the respondents preferred using both the pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches. Paracetamol is considered the drug of choice prescribed by the majority of orthodontists, mainly after initial placement of arch wire and used until the pain is resolved.
Conclusions: More than half of the respondents rely on using both approaches of pain management. Paracetamol is the drug of choice for alleviating pain and mostly prescribed until the pain is resolved, keeping in mind not exceeding the maximum allowed dose. Psychological perspectives and behavioural management was the preferred method as a non-pharmacological approach.