| A prospective pilot study of adult patients treated with customized lingual orthodontic appliances (Incognito(TM), Bad Essen, Germany) was undertaken to measure the intensity and duration of functional impairment and orthodontic tooth pain. Six patients, fully bonded in both arches at UNC School of Dentistry, completed standardized questionnaires at specified time points over an eight week period after appliance placement. Functional impairment, including speech, was reported using a 5-point Likert Rating Scale while tooth pain was scored using an 11-point Numerical Rating Scale. Functional impairment and tooth pain were highest at 48 and 72 hours respectively. Pronunciation problems were highest at 24 hours and declined to near baseline by week 3. Tooth pain subsided by the conclusion of week 2; functional impairment improved by the end of week 3. The results of this investigation may help orthodontists provide details to patients about adaptation to customized lingual orthodontic appliances. |
