Esethetics in Orthodontics

6 Patients who choose to undergo orthodontic or surgical treatment do so for a variety of reasons but almost all want treatment to correct functional problems. If correction of the patient’s malocclusion has compromised aesthetic relationships, then patient unhappiness may follow, even if all functional goals are met. Patients obviously prefer aesthetic improvement with their functional correction if possible. The issues of patient satisfaction and happiness are very complex because of matters such as patient expectation, self-assessment, and psychological and even psychiatric conditions present before and after treatment. One of the contributing factors in patient satisfaction involves the always subjective evaluation of facial aesthetics. Facial appearance considered ideal by one individual or group may not be judged so by others. One’s dental and facial appearance is important not only in the role that attractiveness plays to others but also in one’s self-concept! Perception of appearance, particularly of the face, affects mental health and social behaviour, with significant implications for educational and employment opportunities and mate selection.