Orthodontists’ and patients’ perspectives toward emergency and routine orthodontic care, communication, and teleorthodontics during the COVID-19 pandemic

INTRODUCTION: Although numerous international studies have documented patient and practitioner attitudes toward orthodontic care during the COVID-19 pandemic, no Saudi study has examined whether these attitudes vary by gender or by clinicians’ years of experience. Clarifying these context-specific differences is essential for formulating targeted, evidence-based recommendations for teleorthodontic practice in the Kingdom. OBJECTIVE: This study explored the perceptions of patients and orthodontists regarding emergency and routine orthodontic treatment, communication, and teleorthodontics during the pandemic. METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional study surveyed 92 orthodontists and 211 patients using structured questionnaires. Data were collected on demographics, communication methods, emergency visits, and the feasibility of teleorthodontics for routine procedures. Chi-squared or Fisher’s exact tests were used to identify significant gender and experience-related differences. RESULTS: Patients largely believed all emergencies required in-office visits, whereas orthodontists prioritized severe cases, such as embedded appliances (85.9%) and poking wires (79.3%). Male orthodontists were more likely to conduct in-person visits to manage emergencies. Routine procedures, including appliance placement and removal, were mostly postponed. Teleorthodontics was considered appropriate for expander check-ups, clear aligner fittings, and monitoring inactive appliances (>35%). Experienced practitioners used WhatsApp as the most preferred communication tool (83.7%) and emails as the least (13.0%). CONCLUSION: Teleorthodontics was selectively adopted for specific follow-ups. Standardized protocols and education for both providers and patients are essential for broader implementation and acceptance.