Authors : Dr. Rajesh. R; Dr. Balaji. K; Dr. Senkutvan. R.S; Dr. Mohan Kumar. A.; Dr. Aswathi. S; Dr. Hanisha S

Volume/Issue : Volume 9 - 2024, Issue 8 - August

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/mdchx7kd

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/5yys6uxz

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/IJISRT24AUG1166

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Abstract : Aim: The study aims to evaluate the outcome of orthodontic treatment during the COVID-19 Pandemic using Tele-Orthodontics.  Objective: To explain how Tele-orthodontics represents an excellent way to perform orthodontic follow-ups during a period of restriction and to assess the effectiveness of follow-up using Tele-Orthodontics during the COVID-19 Pandemic.  Materials and Methods: Study design: Our study involves 30 patients in total, where 15 patients did not receive any further therapy and 15 patients had Tele-orthodontics treatment, with 10 patients receiving bonding treatment, 10 receiving mid- treatment treatment, and 10 receiving retention appliances. The communication tools used in our study and proposed in our model of tele-orthodontics include an online questionnaire using Google form once every 15 days, Tele-calling with Google Meet once a month, and frontal, side profile, and occlusal view (if possible) photos via WhatsApp messenger.  Results: Tele-orthodontics proved to be the only option to complete some orthodontic tasks during COVID-19 because it provided a means of communication between the dentist and the patient. Most of the patients who underwent bonding (66.7%), on retainer (96.7%), and during mid-treatment (93.3) maintained good oral hygiene during treatment. 93.3% of the patients’ appliances on retainer were holding tight in place with no discomfort and during the treatment, 70% of the patients were comfortable while speaking and 63.3% noticed changes in their appearance. Overall, Tele orthodontics was more time-saving and more desirable economically to both practitioners and patients.  Conclusion: Tele-Orthodontics is experiencing rapid growth and fierce competition. Most of the patients maintained good oral hygiene, and also had a positive perception of the use of Tele-Orthodontics.

Keywords : Tele Orthodontist, Pandemic, Orthodontist, Covid-19, Treatment.

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