Cureus. 2026 Feb 17;18(2):e103770. doi: 10.7759/cureus.103770. eCollection 2026 Feb.
ABSTRACT
CONTEXT: Functional appliances such as Twin Block (TB) play a key role in managing Class II malocclusion during growth. However, limited data exist on pediatric dentists’ knowledge and clinical use of this therapy in India.
AIMS: This study evaluated the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of Indian postgraduate students in pediatric dentistry regarding Twin Block functional therapy (TBFT) for treating Class II malocclusion.
SETTINGS AND DESIGN: This was a questionnaire-based, cross-sectional study conducted among postgraduate students across India in March 2023.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a structured questionnaire developed through standard methods. The questionnaire assessed knowledge, attitudes, and practical experiences related to Twin Block therapy.
STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: A total of 135 postgraduate students from various dental institutions across India participated. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and assessment of questionnaire reliability using Cohen’s kappa during pilot testing.
RESULTS: The study revealed that knowledge of Twin Block therapy varied significantly with academic year, with second- and third-year students demonstrating increasingly better understanding. Only 11.8% (16 individuals) of respondents had adequate knowledge, while 62.2% (84 individuals) had average knowledge. Positive attitudes toward the therapy were noted among 78.5% (106 individuals) of participants, but only 47.4% (64 individuals) had treated Class II malocclusion cases. Challenges in patient compliance were reported by 88.2% (57 individuals) of respondents. A preference for part-time wear during meals was observed, differing from the recommended full-time use.
CONCLUSIONS: The findings highlight a gap between knowledge and practical application of Twin Block therapy among Indian pediatric dentistry postgraduates. There is a need for a more structured curriculum and increased clinical exposure to enhance competency in using functional appliances.
PMID:41869236 | PMC:PMC13001631 | DOI:10.7759/cureus.103770
