The Effects of Malocclusion Among Priests in Enugu, Nigeria: An Anglican Church-Based Study

Malocclusion refers to the departure from the normal relationship of teeth to other teeth in the same and opposing arch. It can negatively impact on facial appearance and the quality of life of a person. The present study aimed to investigate the influence of malocclusion on the role of priests as counsellors and preachers in Nigeria as perceived by church members. This was a cross-sectional survey of 112 church members who completed an electronic questionnaire. Thirty-five (31.3%) participants said unattractive dental appearance (malocclusion) will impact negatively on their acceptance of the priest’s gospel message. Twenty-seven (24.1%) said dental appearance will influence the choice of priest that they go to for counselling while 71 (63.4%) said it will not. The study found that though unattractive teeth arrangement did not significantly affect the priest’s duties as it pertains to sermons and counselling, awareness on the importance of orthodontic care among the clergy is necessary and should be encouraged among all spiritual leaders.