Dentofacial features and bullying: A study of adolescents in Saudi public schools

Bullying among schoolchildren is a pervasive phenomenon that significantly impacts their mental and physical health. Dentofacial features often make children targets for bullying, leading to psychosocial distress. This study aimed to examine the prevalence of bullying related to dentofacial features among adolescents in public schools in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and to identify its predictors.

A cross-sectional study was conducted involving sixth-grade and high school children in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. Logistic regression analysis was performed for predicting bullying.

In total, 1149 schoolchildren (mean age, 13.3 years) participated in this study. The prevalence of experiencing some form of bullying was 45.9%. Bullied adolescents reported higher rates of absenteeism, a negative effect on their academic grades, and being unhappy in their school environment. Among the physical characteristics, teeth ranked third as a predictor of being bullied, after height and weight. Specific dentofacial features such as protruding teeth were the most common target. Male students were more likely to be bullied (odds ratio = 1.5; P = 0.002) than female students. Sixth-grade children experienced more bullying than high school students (odds ratio = 2.2; P <0.0001).

Bullying is prevalent among schoolchildren in Jeddah, and physical and dentofacial features are common targets, especially a prominent overjet and a gummy smile. Male and younger-grade children experienced significantly more bullying. These findings highlight the need for comprehensive antibullying programs and support systems that address both physical and emotional aspects of well-being.