Prevalence of Dental Anomalies Among the Pediatric Population at Abbasi Shaheed Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Abstract

Background: Pediatric dental anomalies refer to irregularities or abnormalities in the development, structure, or positioning of the teeth in the oral cavity of children. These anomalies can encompass a wide range of conditions that affect the number, size, shape, and structure of teeth. In Karachi, there is limited evidence regarding the prevalence of dental anomalies in children. Objective: This study investigated the prevalence of dental anomalies in the pediatric population of the Abbasi Shaheed Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 278 children aged between 3 and 12 years. The socio-demographic and thorough medical history were recorded on a predesigned performa. The diagnosis of all dental anomalies was based on clinical interpretation using sterilized mouth mirrors, probes, or tongue depressors. Difficult cases were addressed by senior faculty members. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 19. Descriptive statistics were used to present the frequency and Mean ± SD. Result: The prevalence of dental anomalies was 7.4%. in the study area. Male-to-female ratio was 2.2:1. Boys exhibited a higher prevalence of 10.05% compared to girls (4.3%). Peg Lateral Incisors and Fusion/Gemination were the most common anomalies among both genders. Dilaceration, Dentinogenesis Imperfecta, Amelogenesis Imperfecta, Talon Cusp, Anodontia, and supernumerary Tooth (disto-molar) were not identified in either boys or girls. The highest number of dental anomalies was recorded at ages 11 and 12 years. Conclusion: The prevalence of dental anomalies was high in the study area, underscoring the significance of early diagnosis and careful management to prevent complications.