The Relationship of Two Orthodontic Indices, with Perceptions of Aesthetics, Function, Speech and Orthodontic Treatment Need

Purpose: The study was conducted to evaluate the relationship between the Dental Aesthetic Index (DAI) and Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN) with subjective perceptions of dental aesthetics, function, speech and orthodontic treatment need. Methods: This is an observational cross-sectional study. The children were assessed using the DAI and IOTN. A questionnaire pertaining to dental aesthetics and function was recorded. Results and conclusions: The aesthetic components of the indices correlated well with aesthetic perceptions of patients, whereas functional components did not have a significant correlation with functional perceptions. The two indices could be used consistently in the present population. Keywords: Dental Aesthetic Index, Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need, subjective questionnaire