Prevalence of malocclusion among female schoolchildren aged 12-15 years: Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Aim: The aim of the study is to assess the prevalence of malocclusion and orthodontic treatment needs among 12–15-year-old female schoolchildren of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted among 500 female students aged 12–15 years. The prevalence of malocclusion and orthodontic treatment needs was assessed using occlusal traits based on the FDI/World Health Organization objective method. General information on demographic data was also recorded. Descriptive statistics was done to check discrepancies and consistencies. Results: Malocclusion and orthodontic treatment need were reported in this study. Twenty-three percent of participants had 2 mm and more diastema. The majority of participants had Class 1 relation with molar, incisor, and canine. Around 18.8% of participants had over 1/3 overlap, 12.9% had anterior open bite, and 11.9% had posterior over bite (unilateral and bilateral). Posterior crossbite on the right and left sides was present in 19.6% and 16.1% of participants, respectively. Scissor bite on the right and left sides was present in 11.5% and 12.8% of participants, respectively. Around 8.4% of participants had maxillary overjet over 4 mm. Reverse overjet was present in 14.8% of participants. Conclusions: There is a prevalence of malocclusion among the age group of 12–15 years in the KSA. This study can be used as a standard to implement school-based oral health awareness programs which are needed in the KSA.