Evaluation of Orthodontic Treatment Need According to Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN) scoring in 14-18 year-old students in Shiraz

The main goal of this study was to assess the need and demand for orthodontic treatment among 14-18-year-old students in Shiraz.Subjects and 1818 students (965 boys, 853 girls) were selected by using random cluster sampling process from the four education district of Shiraz. The dental health (DHC) and aesthetic (AC) components of the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need were used as an assessment measure of the need for orthodontic treatment, Also, a questionnaire about demographic characteristics was completed. The examinations were carried out by two calibrated orthodontic post-graduate students. The data were analyzed using the student t-test and chi-squared test. The results showed 59.9% of students had "no need" for orthodontic treatment, 28.3% were in borderline category and 11.6% showed a definite need for an orthodontic treatment. Also, there was significant association between IOTN and father's education (P<0.003) Less than one - fifth of 14-18- year- old students in Shiraz were considered in great need of orthodontic treatment using DHC of IOTN and girls had significantly higher need for orthodontic treatment than boys. This study provides baseline data on the need and demand for orthodontic treatment which is important for planning public orthodontic and dental services.