European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

AN ASSESSMENT OF PARENTAL KNOWLEDGE, AWARENESS AND PERCEPTION OF INVISALIGN THERAPY IN CHILDREN DURING MIXED DENTITION: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Divyaprakash Tripathi*

ABSTRACT

Background: Early orthodontic intervention during the mixed dentition stage is crucial for guiding craniofacial growth and managing developing malocclusions. Invisalign therapy, particularly with systems like Invisalign First, offers an esthetic, comfortable, and removable alternative to traditional appliances. Parental knowledge, awareness, and perception play a key role in treatment acceptance and compliance. Aim: To assess parental knowledge, awareness, and perception regarding Invisalign therapy for children during the mixed dentition stage in Bhopal city, Madhya Pradesh. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based survey was conducted among parents of children aged 6–12 years attending private dental clinics. A structured, pre-validated online questionnaire assessed demographic details, knowledge, awareness, and perception of Invisalign therapy. Responses were collected anonymously, out of 500 responses a total of 400 completed questionnaires were analyzed. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize categorical variables. Results: Approximately 70% of parents had heard of Invisalign therapy, while 57.8% were aware of its use during mixed dentition. Most parents recognized its transparency and removability (91.1%) and ability to correct crowding, spacing, and crossbite (85.6%). About 78.9% knew the recommended wear duration, and 90% were aware of higher costs compared to traditional appliances. Discussions with dentists occurred in 60% of parents, while 78.9% obtained information from non-dental sources. A majority perceived Invisalign as more comfortable (85.6%), esthetic (90%), and easier for children to adapt to (88.9%). Despite cost concerns, 88.9% were willing to choose Invisalign for their child, and 95.6% would recommend it to others. Conclusion: Parents generally exhibit a positive attitude and preference for Invisalign therapy over traditional braces, driven by esthetic appeal, comfort, and adaptability. Knowledge gaps and cost concerns persist, highlighting the need for targeted education and professional guidance to improve acceptance, compliance, and overall pediatric orthodontic outcomes.

Keywords: Invisalign therapy, mixed dentition, parental perception, pediatric orthodontics, clear aligners.