Comparative Study of IOTN and DAI in Evaluating Orthodontic Treatment Needs among Patients in Eastern India
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background: Malocclusion is a common dental health issue that can negatively impact psychological well-being, facial appearance, and oral function. Accurate assessment of orthodontic treatment need is essential for effective treatment planning and prioritization, particularly in resource-limited settings. Standardized indices such as the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need and the Dental Aesthetic Index are commonly used to evaluate malocclusion severity; however, variations in their assessment criteria may lead to differences in treatment need estimation, especially when patient perception is considered. Objective: To assess how well patients at Anugrag Narayan Magadh Medical Hospital facility in Eastern India agree with the Dental Aesthetic Index and the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need in order to compare orthodontic treatment needs from the perspective of the patient. Methods: The Dental Department carried out a retrospective cross-sectional investigation at Anugrah Narayan Magadh Medical College and Hospital between June 2025 and December 2025. Pre-treatment orthodontic records of 250–300 patients aged 12–25 years were analyzed. The Dental Aesthetic Index and the IOTN's requirement for orthodontic treatment were assessed using the Dental Health and Aesthetic Components. Data were subjected to descriptive statistical analysis, and comparisons between indices were performed using the chi-square testA. The agreement between IOTN and DAI was evaluated using kappa statistics at a significance threshold of p < 0.05. Results: Assessment using IOTN and DAI revealed varying levels of orthodontic treatment need among the study population. A higher proportion of patients demonstrated moderate to definite treatment need when evaluated using IOTN compared to DAI. The agreement between the two indices ranged from fair to moderate, indicating that the indices did not consistently identify the same individuals as requiring orthodontic treatment. Patientperceived aesthetic concern showed a closer association with the Aesthetic Component of IOTN than with DAI scores. Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that IOTN and DAI differ in their assessment of orthodontic treatment need when patient perception is considered. While both indices are useful for evaluating malocclusion severity, IOTN appears to better reflect patient aesthetic concerns. Comparative use of these indices may aid in improved treatment prioritization and more patient-centered orthodontic care in clinical practice.
Authors: Shagufta Anjum, Ritu Priya, Swapnil Singh
Institution: Anugrah Narayan Magadh Medical College & Hospital
Language: English
Subfield: Orthodontics
Field: Dentistry
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W7160428551