A Comparative Evaluation of Patient and Orthodontist Preferences and Attitude in Intraoral Photography Using a Novel Tongue Retractor as an Adjunct for Occlusal Photographic Mirror vs. Conventional Techniques for Capturing Mandibular Occlusal Photographs in Orthodontic Practice.

Abstract

Introduction: The use of digital dental photography (DDP), which facilitates patient communication, treatment planning, and documentation, has become essential to orthodontic treatments. On the other hand, difficulties result from procedural errors, which are frequently caused by device design, patient compliance, or practitioner technique. The purpose of this study is to compare the attitudes and preferences of orthodontists and patients about a new tongue retractor as an addition to intraoral photography techniques for mandibular occlusal photography.

Materials and Methods: 48 participants, ranging in age from 18 to 40, were recruited in the Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics at K. M. Shah Dental College & Hospital. The participants were subjected to digital dental photography in accordance with predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Patients and orthodontists filled, questionnaires and visual analogue scales to assess preferences, attitudes, and discomfort levels.

Results: Patients favoured the new tongue retractor, noting less discomfort and nausea, while orthodontists praised it for its comfort, ease of usage, and decreased discomfort. Both orthodontists and patients preferred the innovative tongue retractor, according to statistical analysis, which also showed substantial variations in the amount of discomfort, time required for photography, and respiratory impairment between the two procedures.

Conclusion: Incorporating the innovative tongue retractor with intraoral imaging techniques in orthodontic treatment can increase patient and orthodontist’s comfort and treatment quality. In orthodontics, putting patient convenience and ease first can result in better treatment outcomes