Emergence Time and Sequence of Primary Teeth in a Sample of Nepalese Children

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Dentistry
• Developmental Biology
• Human Growth and Development

Background:

• Primary teeth emergence is a key developmental milestone in children.
• The timing and sequence of primary tooth eruption vary significantly across different populations.
• Establishing normative data is crucial for identifying developmental deviations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the precise timing and sequence of primary tooth emergence in Nepalese children.
• To establish baseline data for the Kavre district population.
• To compare emergence patterns between sexes and sides of the jaw.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 5-month to 4-year-old children at Dhulikhel Hospital.
• Detailed records of tooth emergence (visible cusp/margin) were collected along with age in months and gender.
• Descriptive statistics and unpaired t-tests were employed for data analysis.

Main Results:

• The mandibular central incisor was the first to emerge (9.37 ± 1.42 months), and the maxillary second molar was the last (32.91 ± 6.39 months).
• No significant differences in emergence time were observed between jaws, sides, or sexes, with minor exceptions.
• Girls showed slightly earlier emergence for the primary maxillary right central incisor and mandibular right second molar.

Conclusions:

• The observed emergence times and sequence provide valuable baseline data for Nepalese children in the Kavre district.
• This data can aid in monitoring normal primary tooth development.
• Understanding population-specific eruption patterns is essential for pediatric dental care.