Dental anomalies in panoramic radiographs of pediatric patients

A panoramic radiograph is more likely utilized in children with high caries risk and mixed dentition, and it can be complemented by other X-rays (such as periapical and/or bitewings). This study analyzed 1359 panoramic radiographs taken over 33 years at the Pedodontics Clinic of the State University of Rio de Janeiro in order to determine the prevalence of dental anomalies in mixed dentition children. The population evaluated had 670 (49.3%) boys and 689 (50.7%) girls, ranging in age from 5-12 years, with a median age of 8 years. The total prevalence of anomalies detected was 11.72%; anodontia and supernumerary teeth were the most reported (4.63% and 3.31%, respectively). Statistical differences noted were in the presence of supernumary teeth in males (4.9%, P <.001) and the presence of anodontia in females (6.1%, P = .009). Based on these findings, a panoramic radiograph can help to analyze transitional dentition, as well as complement the clinical examination at the first dental visit of a pediatric patient with a high risk for caries.