Thesis I is the second phase of the research component in the orthodontic program. During this course, students are expected to obtain ethical approval and conduct a pilot study (if required) to assess the feasibility and appropriateness of their proposed research methods and materials. Any challenges encountered during the pilot study must be critically analyzed, and necessary adjustments to the research design should be made. Modifications to the original proposal should be clearly justified based on pilot study outcomes and relevant emerging literature. This stage is essential for refining the study design prior to full-scale data collection.