PREVALENCE OF MALOCCLUSION IN PATIENTS REPORTING IN AN ORTHODONTIC OPD OF A TERITARY CARE HOSPITAL

Abstract

Introduction: Malocclusion can present itself in numerous ways. It is present in every society but the norms and pattern vary. In order to correct occlusal disharmony, it is imperative to identify its pattern in the population so that proper resources can be directed towards its diagnosis and treatment planning.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to assess the pattern of malocclusion in patients of the Department of Orthodontics at Altamash Institute of Dental Medicine.

Materials and Methods: To achieve this, dentofacial characteristics of 324 patients from September 2003 to November 2008 were analyzed and tabulated. Both males and females were included in this study. Different cephalometric values were used to evaluate the type of malocclusion. Casts were analyzed to record the patients dental classification.

Results: Skeletal class II was the most frequently seen malocclusion in this population whereas class III was least frequently seen. Class II molar relation was the most prevalent. The study also revealed the amount of overjet mostly seen in class II patients.

Conclusion: The results of this study reflect the need for further studies to investigate the reasons behind this trend.