IADR Abstract Archives
Exploring the Patient Experience of Hypodontia in 2023: Insights from the CHOSEN study Phase II Patient Interviews
Objectives: The aim of the CHOSEN study (Core Hypodontia Outcome Set development with stakeholder ENgagement) is to determine outcomes relevant to hypodontia patients, treating clinicians and oral healthcare researchers that is applicable to the different stages of hypodontia rehabilitation. Existing hypodontia research uses different OHRQoL assessment tools for different stages of rehabilitation which prevents longitudinal monitoring of condition and treatment impacts.
Methods: In this phase of the CHOSEN study, qualitative interviews with 13 hypodontia patients were performed to gain in-depth insights into their experiences. The study population included individuals with untreated hypodontia, those in the orthodontic and restorative stages of treatment, and those who had completed their dental interventions. The interviews were designed to explore the psychosocial impact of hypodontia, treatment expectations and post-treatment outcomes. Data analysis involved thematic analysis, coding and interpretation to identify common patterns in the patient narratives.
Results: The preliminary analysis of the CHOSEN Phase II patient interviews revealed several major themes for participants, including the psychosocial burden of hypodontia, appearance concerns, treatment expectations, and long-term outcomes. The majority of patients experienced significant impacts on self-esteem and concerns about their appearance prior to any hypodontia treatment. During orthodontic and interim restorative treatment, participants noted some functional difficulties but appreciated improved aesthetics. With the conclusion of treatment, participants expressed a positive benefit to their quality of life, but reflected on a long treatment period with an ongoing maintenance burden.
Conclusions: The CHOSEN Phase II patient interview preliminary analysis underscores the importance of incorporating patient perspectives into hypodontia research and clinical practice. The insights gained from these interviews will inform the next steps of the CHOSEN study to produce a Core Outcome Set.
Methods: In this phase of the CHOSEN study, qualitative interviews with 13 hypodontia patients were performed to gain in-depth insights into their experiences. The study population included individuals with untreated hypodontia, those in the orthodontic and restorative stages of treatment, and those who had completed their dental interventions. The interviews were designed to explore the psychosocial impact of hypodontia, treatment expectations and post-treatment outcomes. Data analysis involved thematic analysis, coding and interpretation to identify common patterns in the patient narratives.
Results: The preliminary analysis of the CHOSEN Phase II patient interviews revealed several major themes for participants, including the psychosocial burden of hypodontia, appearance concerns, treatment expectations, and long-term outcomes. The majority of patients experienced significant impacts on self-esteem and concerns about their appearance prior to any hypodontia treatment. During orthodontic and interim restorative treatment, participants noted some functional difficulties but appreciated improved aesthetics. With the conclusion of treatment, participants expressed a positive benefit to their quality of life, but reflected on a long treatment period with an ongoing maintenance burden.
Conclusions: The CHOSEN Phase II patient interview preliminary analysis underscores the importance of incorporating patient perspectives into hypodontia research and clinical practice. The insights gained from these interviews will inform the next steps of the CHOSEN study to produce a Core Outcome Set.