Predictors of orthodontic treatment conclusion: A historical cohort study

The study investigated which patient and orthodontic treatment factors act as predictors for the conclusion of the ongoing treatment in a dental clinic of a specialization program in Orthodontics. Data were collected from the records of patients treated from 1997 to 2015. Potential predictors for treatment conclusion were investigated: patient-related factors (PRFs) and treatment-related factors (TRFs). PRFs were sex, age, face balance, Angle malocclusion classification, open bite, denture, facial pattern, facial profile, buccal corridor, crossbite, maxillary deficiency, and sagittal mandibular behavior; and TRFs were therapeutic approaches, treatment modality, extractions, and Bolton discrepancy. The initial and final treatment dates were collected. Descriptive data analysis, univariate, and multivariate logistic regression were performed (5% significance). Of the 903 records, 561 patients were included in the study. It was demonstrated that starting the treatment at a young age (PRF) and the presence of crossbite (TRF) are predictive factors for the treatment conclusion. A vertical facial pattern (dolichofacial or brachyfacial) and a greater number of extractions for orthodontic reasons may contribute positively to the conclusion of the treatment. The frequency of treatment inconclusion was higher during the first 2 years of treatment (more than 50% of the patients that initiated the treatment). Young age at the beginning of treatment and the presence of crossbite malocclusion can increase the chance of treatment conclusion. •Patients who start treatment at a young age are more likely to complete treatment.•Patients with crossbite are more likely to complete treatment.•Patients who abandon treatment are most likely to do so during the first 2 years.