Orthodontic Anomalies, Tooth Caries, and Tooth Loss in Adolescence: Their Impact on Self-Esteem and Body Image

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to examine the relationship between common dental anomalies, such as orthodontic treatment needs, tooth loss, and dental caries, and their impact on self-esteem and body image in adolescents. Given that adolescence is a critical period for psychological and physical development, understanding how dental health influences these factors is essential.

Methods: A total of 167 adolescents aged 15–18 years who sought dental care at the Recep Tayyip Erdoğan University Faculty of Dentistry participated in this study. Sociodemographic data, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) scores, and Body Image Scale scores were collected. A clinical oral examination assessed orthodontic treatment needs, tooth loss, and untreated dental caries. Participants were categorized based on their self-esteem and body image scores, and statistical analyses, including Spearman correlation and chi-square tests, were conducted to evaluate associations between dental anomalies, self-esteem, and body image.

Results: A significant negative correlation was found between orthodontic treatment needs and body image (p = 0.015), indicating that adolescents requiring orthodontic treatment had lower body image scores. However, no significant relationship was observed between tooth loss, dental caries, and either self-esteem or body image (p > 0.05).

Conclusion: The findings suggest that orthodontic issues are strongly linked to body image concerns in adolescents, whereas tooth loss and dental caries do not appear to significantly affect self-esteem or body image. These results highlight the psychosocial importance of orthodontic treatment and emphasize the need for further longitudinal studies exploring the link between dental health and psychological well-being.