Perception and satisfaction with dental aesthetics in 12–16-year-old students in Peguche, Ecuador

Abstract

Dental aesthetics is a crucial factor in the self-image and self-esteem of adolescents, especially during developmental stages where social acceptance is vital. The objective of the study was to evaluate the perception and satisfaction with dental aesthetics in a sample of students aged 12 to 16 years from the “Miguel Egas Cabezas” Educational Unit located in the rural community of Peguche, Otavalo, Ecuador, during the 2022-2023 academic period. A cross-sectional, observational, descriptive, and prospective study was conducted with a sample of 29 students, who responded to a questionnaire about their perception and satisfaction with their teeth. The results showed that 35% of the students feel moderately satisfied with their teeth, while 24 % feel highly satisfied and 10 % feel extremely satisfied. In terms of shyness when showing their teeth, 24 % do not feel shy at all, but another 24 % feel very shy, and 14 % feel extremely shy. Regarding disgust with dental appearance, 42 % do not feel disgusted, 24 % feel somewhat disgusted, and 14 % feel very disgusted. These findings suggest that although the majority are satisfied with their dental aesthetics, there is a significant proportion facing challenges with their dental appearance, affecting their psychological and social well-being. It is concluded that it is necessary to implement dental education and psychological support programs to improve aesthetic perception and the overall well-being of adolescents.