A cross-sectional survey in Az-Zawiyah City sheds light on community awareness about early orthodontic intervention and dental care timing.

Survey Findings at a Glance

A new cross-sectional survey conducted in Az-Zawiyah City, Libya, has revealed significant insights into public perceptions regarding the ideal age for initiating orthodontic treatment. The study, published in the AlQalam Journal of Medical and Applied Sciences (Volume 9, Issue 6, 2026), highlights a growing awareness among Libyan families about the importance of early dental intervention.

The research was carried out by a team led by Rema Hwas from the Department of Orthodontics, alongside co-authors Samar Dakhil and Lujayn Rezq Allah. The survey targeted the general population of Az-Zawiyah, one of Libya's major coastal cities, to assess community knowledge and attitudes toward orthodontic care timing.

Key Facts from the Research

  • The survey was conducted online in November 2025 using a structured, self-administered questionnaire.
  • Researchers distributed the questionnaire via social media platforms to reach a broad cross-section of Az-Zawiyah residents.
  • The study aimed to evaluate perceptions and attitudes toward the ideal age for initiating orthodontic treatment among the general population.
  • Findings were published in the AlQalam Journal of Medical and Applied Sciences, a peer-reviewed publication covering medical and applied sciences.
  • The research team emphasized that early orthodontic intervention can significantly improve long-term dental health outcomes for children and adolescents.
  • The study contributes to a growing body of regional research on dental health awareness in North African communities.

Expert Perspective on Early Intervention

Dr. Rema Hwas, lead researcher from the Department of Orthodontics, emphasized the importance of community education on orthodontic timing. "Understanding public perceptions is the first step toward designing effective awareness campaigns. Many families in Libya are unaware that early orthodontic assessment — ideally around age 7 — can prevent more complex and costly treatments later in life," Hwas stated.

The research underscores a critical gap between professional dental recommendations and public awareness. International orthodontic associations worldwide recommend that children receive their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7, yet many Libyan families delay consultation until adolescence or adulthood.

Why This Matters for Libya

This survey carries particular significance for Libya's healthcare landscape. As the country continues to rebuild its medical infrastructure following years of conflict, understanding public health perceptions becomes essential for effective policy-making. Dental health awareness campaigns in Libya can benefit directly from such data-driven research.

Az-Zawiyah City, located approximately 45 kilometers west of Tripoli, serves as an important urban center with a population that reflects broader Libyan demographic trends. Findings from this survey can inform national dental health strategies and help allocate resources for orthodontic services across Libyan cities.

The study also aligns with broader regional efforts to improve healthcare education in North Africa, where access to specialized dental care remains limited in many areas.

Looking Ahead

The research team plans to expand the survey to other Libyan cities, including Tripoli, Benghazi, and Misurata, to build a comprehensive national picture of orthodontic awareness. Such expanded research could guide the Libyan Ministry of Health in developing targeted public education programs.

For Libyan families, the message is clear: early orthodontic assessment can lead to better outcomes, reduced treatment costs, and improved quality of life. As awareness grows through studies like this one, more Libyan children may benefit from timely dental interventions that set the foundation for lifelong oral health.

— LibyaPress / Libya Desk

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