The aim of this observational study is to evaluate the relationship between the severity of orthodontic malocclusion and psychophysiological stress levels in individuals aged 12 to 18 years. The study will investigate the association between malocclusion severity and both stress-related salivary biomarkers and psychosocial factors.
The primary research question is as follows:
As the severity of orthodontic malocclusion increases, do levels of salivary stress biomarkers (cortisol, DHEA, and chromogranin A), self-esteem, and social appearance anxiety significantly change in adolescent individuals?
Method:
The study will include participants between the ages of 12 and 18. The severity of malocclusion will be assessed through clinical examination. Psychological assessments will be conducted using structured questionnaires to measure self-esteem and social appearance anxiety. In addition, saliva samples collected in the morning will be analyzed using the ELISA method to determine levels of cortisol, DHEA, and chromogranin A (CgA). The data will be statistically analyzed to identify the potential relationship between orthodontic malocclusion and biological and psychosocial indicators of stress.
Who can participate
Age range
12 Years – 18 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Patients between the ages of 12 and 18,
* Patients with all permanent teeth,
* Patients with the ability to read and understand,
* Patients with a cephalometric evaluation file and maxillary and mandibular impression dental models before diagnostic orthodontic treatment.
Exclusion Criteria:
* Presence of any congenital craniofacial deformity (cleft lip and palate or any other craniofacial syndrome or deformity),
* Patients who have previously initiated or completed orthodontic treatment,
* Patients with a history of psychiatric illness, the presence of caries, facial asymmetry, and any skin deformity affecting facial aesthetics.
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale Score
Timeframe: First day
2
Social Appearance Anxiety Scale Score
Timeframe: First day
3
Collection of Saliva Samples
Timeframe: Second day
Trial details
NCT IDNCT07116317
SponsorRecep Tayyip Erdogan University Training and Research Hospital