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International Arab Journal of Dentistry

Abstract

Introduction: Malocclusion is a deviation in the alignment of the teeth and jaws, which can result in an improper bite. Malocclusion can stem from various etiological factors affecting both functionality and esthetics and leading to oral health problems. An orthodontic assessment in the mixed dentition should include a comprehensive history, a thorough clinical examination, and any relevant additional examinations.

Objectives: The present study’s purpose was to assess the prevalence of malocclusion among 8-to-10-years-old Lebanese children, through a cross sectional study.

Methods: 613 child were included in the study. Clinical assessments of malocclusion, gender differences, dental substance loss, and harmful habits were evaluated.

Results: 48.6% of the subjects present malocclusion and need orthodontic treatment. In the mixed dentition, overbite and overjet were associated with gender (p D 0.0016 and 0.043 respectively), especially in moderate and severe cases in males.

Conclusions: Given the more prolonged craniofacial growth patterns in males, the timing of orthodontic treatment initiation may benefit from taking gender as well as age into consideration. Further research with larger samples and more diagnostic tools is needed to confirm this association.

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