Non-third molar related pericoronitis in a sub-urban Nigeria population of children

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M O Folayan1, E O Ozeigbe, N Onyejaeka

  • 1Department of Child Dental Health, Faculty of Dentistry, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun, Nigeria.

Nigerian Journal of Clinical Practice
|December 12, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Non-third molar pericoronitis is uncommon in children, with chronic cases most frequently affecting the lower right second molar. Management involves warm saline mouth baths and analgesics for chronic cases, and antibiotics for acute presentations.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Dentistry
  • Oral Health
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Pericoronitis, an inflammation of the gum flap over a tooth, typically affects third molars.
  • This study focuses on non-third molar pericoronitis in children under 15.
  • Understanding its prevalence and characteristics in this age group is crucial for pediatric dental care.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of non-third molar pericoronitis in children.
  • To describe the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of these cases.
  • To identify risk factors and affected teeth in pediatric patients.

Main Methods:

  • Prospective study of pediatric patients diagnosed with pericoronitis (excluding third molars).
  • Data collected included demographics, medical history (malaria, respiratory diseases, tonsillitis, immunosuppression), and radiographic findings.
  • Diagnosis followed Howe's criteria; treatment regimens were recorded.

Main Results:

  • Prevalence of non-third molar pericoronitis was 0.63%, predominantly affecting females (63.6%).
  • Chronic pericoronitis (73.3%) was most common, affecting the lower right second permanent molar (35.7%); no cases occurred in primary dentition or premolars.
  • Acute/subacute cases resolved in 10 days with antibiotics, analgesics, and warm saline mouth bath (WSMB); chronic cases resolved in 3 days with WSMB and analgesics.

Conclusions:

  • Non-third molar pericoronitis is rare in children.
  • Chronic pericoronitis is the most frequent presentation, often involving the lower right second permanent molar.
  • Effective management strategies exist for both acute and chronic forms.
Abstract

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