Patient preference for colored elastic ligatures, undergoing orthodontic treatment

Tayaba Zubaida; Ahsan Mehmood Shah; Muhammed Saud; Raiq Shah; Mashal Afridi

Patient preference for colored elastic ligatures, undergoing orthodontic treatment

Authors

Tayaba Zubaida BDS; Resident, Department of Orthodontics, Khyber College of Dentistry.
Ahsan Mehmood Shah BDS, FCPS, MOrth Rcsed, FFD RCSI, MHR; Head of department, Associate professor, Department of Orthodontics, Khyber college of Dentistry.
Muhammed Saud BDS, MDS; Assistant professor, Department of Orthodontics, Khyber college of Dentistry.
Raiq Shah BDS, DCD; Assistant Professor, Orthodontic Department, Khyber College of Dentistry.
Mashal Afridi BDS; Resident, Department of Orthodontics, Khyber College of Dentistry.

Keywords:

Auxiliaries, colors, esthetics, o rings, patient preference

Abstract

Introduction: Elastomeric ligatures are the most common form of ligation in fixed appliance therapy. Being available in different shades, the patient can pick the color for the month, which is believed to positively affect their cooperation, due to their active involvement. However, little is known regarding the patients’ preferences for the different colors.

Material and methods: The study included 200 patients with metal brackets, divided into groups based on gender (100 males; 100 females), questionnaire was filled and preferences for colored elastic ligatures were recorded using a color scale. Chi-square analysis was performed to assess the color preferences, and its influence by gender and age.

Results: 40% males and 43% females stated that they felt motivated when given an option to choose between colored ligatures. However, Pearson Chi-Square Test showed the result to be insignificant, with a P-value of 0.27.

Between colored and transparent ligatures, 32% males preferred colored ligatures compared to 75% females. Males picked darker shades (61%) while females preferred lighter ones.

Both genders rejected yellow. Pearson Chi square test showed insignificance in gender and color preference.

53% teenagers picked colored ligatures. Adults preferred transparent (65%). Pearson correlation showed insignificance in age and color preferences.

Conclusions: Males prefer transparent ligatures while females prefer colored ones.