Patients with skeletal malocclusions often first seek treatment from dentists due to complaints of improper occlusion. Some patients with jaw underdevelopment consult otorhinolaryngologists or neurologists with symptoms such as pain and noise in the ear area, temporomandibular joint discomfort, and masticatory muscle pain. These specialists ultimately refer patients to maxillofacial surgeons and orthodontists.

Proper motivation is crucial for patients considering orthognathic surgery, as some may spend years undergoing orthodontic compensation, which often leads to dissatisfaction. Over the past year, 87 patients with skeletal malocclusions have undergone surgical treatment after being motivated by a multidisciplinary team consisting of a prosthodontist, orthodontist, neurologist, otorhinolaryngologist, and maxillofacial surgeon.

Statistical data show that 70–80% of patients choose orthognathic surgery primarily for aesthetic improvements, followed by functional correction, while 10–30% seek treatment to resolve psychological concerns related to their appearance. Among 100 consulted patients, 55 agreed to combined treatment, including dental decompensation and orthognathic surgery. However, 45 patients sought additional opinions, researched complications, or chose alternative orthodontic treatments. Ultimately, 15 of them proceeded with surgical treatment. Additionally, 4 patients were discouraged from surgery by maxillofacial surgeons due to minimal aesthetic or functional benefits.

Orthognathic surgery, skeletal malocclusion, patient motivation

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Solovyova E.S., Rodionova V.A. "Patient motivation strategy. A guide to action for an effective dentist." Educational and methodical manual. St. Petersburg: Science-intensive Technologies, 2023.

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