Objectives: To explore the views of potential orthognathic patients concerning the influence of the BOS Orthognathic DVD in their decision making process.Design: Qualitative, cross sectional study Setting: A UK dental teaching hospital Participants: Patients considering orthognathic treatmentMethods: New patients were recruited from orthognathic clinics following an initial consultation. After an appropriate time to view the DVD, in-depth interviews were conducted with 10 patients (aged 16-48yrs) in their homes. Interviews explored the attitudes and perceptions that influenced the decisions about surgery, with a focus on the role of the DVD in this process. The interviews were transcribed and a framework analysis was undertaken. Results:The main themes identified were the participants' perceptions on the patient stories, use of images, the nature of the DVD itself and its usefulness in the decision making process. Participants reported they were heavily influenced by the patient stories. Virtual animations of surgery were seen as useful; whereas the before and after images of surgery were found to be disorientating. The design of the menu resulted in confusion or information being missed. The DVD was seen as a trusted resource, whereas the Internet was seen as biased, general and sensationalistic. Conclusions:The DVD gives trusted information that patients cannot obtain or process from professional sources or the Internet. If used properly it can have a role in the decision making process, but should be seen within the context of other influences on the patient. This research has highlighted some aspects of the DVD that could be improved upon.

Patients at different stages of treatment found the OIR helpful and reassuring. Clinicians may find it useful to direct patients to the OIR to complement a professional consultation, but should be aware that patients may perceive it as presenting a positive image of the long-term benefits of orthognathic surgery.

Objective: To evaluate the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on patients in active orthodontic treatment. Design: Digital online survey. Setting: Two secondary care orthodontic departments in the United Kingdom. Participants: A prospective convenience sample of 103 patients in active orthodontic treatment. Methods: A 12-item questionnaire developed using the platform SurveyMonkey was used to assess the following: (1) patient’s feelings towards attending their orthodontic appointments; (2) their desire to continue with their treatment; (3) how many patients encountered problems with their appliance during the lockdown; (4) how patients sought help during the first national lockdown period; and (5) any other concerns regarding impact on their orthodontic treatment. Results: A total of 103 participants responses were collected over a four-week period across two departments. Of them, 45% required a face-to-face appointment to solve a problem with their appliance; 45% of patients who had problems with their orthodontic appliance were able to resolve the issue through digital means either via telephone/email advice from their provider or from accessing help via the Internet; and 99% of patients wanted to continue with their orthodontic treatment. Conclusion: Our study has shown that a significantly higher percentage of patients are more concerned regarding attending face-to-face appointments after the first national lockdown due to the coronavirus pandemic. Providers of orthodontic care should ensure they support their patients by providing digital support and adopt virtual means of managing emergency cases patients in the event of any further imposed national or local lockdowns. Furthermore, access and availability of emergency face-to-face orthodontic care is necessary for many patients in active orthodontic treatment.