Summary
The objective of the present study was to identify the fundamental factors associated with patient cooperation during orthodontic treatment. A qualitative study was carried out, following a hermeneutical approach, using focus groups as the data collection instrument. Sample selection consisted of adolescent patients undergoing orthodontic treatment at CES University Dental Clinics in Medellin, Colombia. Each focus group was directed by trained psychologists. Transcriptions were carried out and afterwards analyzed. Two focus groups, each consistent of 17 patients ranging between 11 and 18 years of age, who were in active orthodontic treatment were evaluated. Five significant factors associated with patient cooperation were identified which included, knowledge, empathy, esthetics, friendly environment, and inclusion in treatment.
KEY WORDS: Cooperation, orthodontic treatment, adolescence, perception.
How to cite this article
CASTELLANOS, G. L. M; PÉREZ, R. A. C.; GALLÓN, L. A. & CÁRDENAS, V. J. M. Perception of adolescent patients on cooperation during orthodontic treatment: a qualitative study. Int. J. Odontostomat., 8(2):225-228, 2014.
