Public Perceptions Toward the Ideal Age for Initiating Orthodontic Treatment: A Cross-sectional Survey in Az-Zawiyah City, Libya

Abstract

The optimal timing for initiating orthodontic treatment remains a subject of debate among clinicians, yet community-level awareness on this topic remains understudied, particularly in North Africa. This study aimed to evaluate the perceptions and attitudes of the general population in Az-Zawiyah City, Libya, regarding the ideal age for initiating orthodontic treatment. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted online in November 2025 using a structured, self-administered questionnaire distributed via social media platforms. A convenience sample of 915 participants was recruited, including orthodontic patients, members of the general public, parents, and students aged 10–68 years. The questionnaire assessed participants' demographic data, prior orthodontic experience, perceived ideal treatment age, and attitudes toward early intervention. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the chi-square goodness-of-fit test (p < 0.05) with SPSS 27. The majority of respondents (53.6%) were aged 21–30 years, and 63.3% had no prior orthodontic treatment. The most frequently endorsed ideal treatment age was case-dependent (29.8%), followed by 15–18 years (26.2%) and 10–14 years (25.2%). Only 5.8% believed treatment should begin before age 10. Regarding early intervention, 37.3% strongly supported it, and 28.3% supported it conditionally, while 24.2% preferred to wait. All response distributions were statistically significant (p < 0.001). The community in Az-Zawiyah City holds generally positive attitudes toward orthodontic treatment and supports early intervention when problems are clearly visible. However, knowledge gaps persist regarding specific timing thresholds and clinical indications for early screening. These findings underscore the need for targeted public health education and enhanced collaboration between pediatric dentists and orthodontists in Libya.