The study, conducted in the Qassim region of Saudi Arabia, aimed to identify the prevalence of malocclusion in male schoolchildren aged 10-12 years. The examination included 536 children and assessed various occlusal traits such as Angle’s relationship, overjet, overbite, crossbite, midline deviation, and lip competence.
Key findings from the study include:
- Class I Malocclusion: 48.9% of the sample had Class I malocclusion, while 31.3% had Class I ideal occlusion.
- Class II Malocclusion: 12.5% of the sample presented with Class II malocclusion.
- Class III Malocclusion: 7.3% of the sample had Class III malocclusion.
- Overjet: 34.4% of the sample had increased overjet, with 3.9% having edge-to-edge and 2.2% reverse overjet.
- Overbite: 39% had increased overbite, and 3% had an open bite.
- Crossbite: 6.15% had anterior crossbite, 5% unilateral posterior, and 0.5% bilateral posterior crossbite.
- Midline Deviation: 10% had a deviated midline.
- Lip Competence: 12.1% had an incompetent lip.
The study emphasizes the importance of early intervention in correcting occlusal discrepancies to facilitate treatment and prevent defects in developing dental arches. Practitioners can leverage these findings to enhance their diagnostic and treatment approaches.
Here are some actionable steps for practitioners:
- Implement Early Screening: Regular screening for malocclusion in children can help identify issues early and initiate timely intervention.
- Educate Parents and Teachers: Raise awareness about the importance of early dental check-ups and the potential impact of malocclusion on oral health and speech development.
- Collaborate with Dentists: Work closely with dental professionals to create comprehensive treatment plans for children with malocclusion.
- Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest research and best practices in managing malocclusion and related conditions.
By incorporating these strategies, practitioners can improve outcomes for children and contribute to their overall well-being. The findings from this study also highlight the need for further research to explore the prevalence and impact of malocclusion in different populations and settings.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Malocclusion Among 10- to 12-Year-Old Male Schoolchildren in Qassim Region of Saudi Arabia: A Retrospective Epidemiological Study.
