Patient compliance and locus of control in orthodontic treatment: A prospective study

Introduction: Increased understanding of orthodontic patients will improve communication between dentist and patient; this is important for an optimal treatment outcome. In this prospective study, we addressed the relationship between patient compliance and locus of control (LOC) characteristics and evaluated posttreatment changes in LOC profiles. Methods: Two types of LOC questionnaires, the Rotter internal control scale (RICS) and the Nowicki-Strickland external control scale (NSECS), were given to 561 patients before conventional orthodontic treatment. After orthodontic treatment, the same questionnaires were readministered, and patient compliance was evaluated by an orthodontist and 3 dental hygienists. LOC scores were calculated at the end of the examination period. The difference in LOC between the good and poor compliance groups, and the posttreatment changes in LOC were evaluated. Results: There was no significant difference in RICS and NSECS profiles between the good and poor compliance groups. NSECS decreased significantly after orthodontic treatment, but there were no significant changes in RICS. Conclusions: Patient compliance appears to be a complex factor that cannot be predicted by LOC evaluation before orthodontic treatment. Patients who underwent orthodontic treatment showed decreased external control dispositions.