A Study Comparing The Impact Of Socioeconomic Burden Of Orthodontic Treatment On The Family In Tier 1 And Tier 3 Cities Of Maharashtra

Abstract

newline A STUDY COMPARING THE IMPACT OF SOCIOECONOMIC BURDEN OF ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT ON THE FAMILY IN TIER 1 AND TIER 3 CITIES OF MAHARASHTRA newlineABSTRACT newlineOrthodontic treatment is a prolonged and resource-intensive dental intervention that provides significant functional, aesthetic, and psychosocial benefits. However, the cost of treatment, extended duration, repeated visits, and associated indirect expenses often impose a substantial socioeconomic burden on patients and their families, particularly in low- and middle-income settings. Despite increasing demand for orthodontic care, limited evidence exists on the comprehensive socioeconomic burden and financial coping mechanisms adopted by families undergoing orthodontic treatment in India. newlineThe present study was conducted to assess and compare the impact of the socioeconomic burden of orthodontic treatment on families residing in Tier 1 and Tier 3 cities of Maharashtra. The study was designed as a comparative cross-sectional mixed-methods study conducted in two phases. Phase I involved the development, validation, and pilot testing of a semi-structured questionnaire to assess direct costs, indirect costs, psychosocial impact, accessibility, affordability, and financial coping mechanisms related to orthodontic treatment. The questionnaire demonstrated excellent reliability and validity. Phase II involved the administration of the validated questionnaire to orthodontic patients attending government, trust, and private dental clinics in Mumbai (Tier 1 city) and Wardha (Tier 3 city). newlineThe results revealed that orthodontic treatment imposes a significant socioeconomic burden across both city types, with marked differences in the nature and intensity of financial stress. Families in Tier 3 cities experienced a higher relative burden, frequently compromising essential household expenditures such as housing, daily travel, medical expenses, and education, while relying predominantly on current income and limited savings. In contrast, families in Tier 1 cities primarily a