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Malocclusion in children aged 3-6 years in Nairobi, Kenya
M M Kabue1, J K Moracha, P M Ng'ang'a
1Dental Surgeon, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya.
Insights
Over half of young children in Nairobi, Kenya, exhibit malocclusion. Early orthodontic intervention is recommended for addressing common issues like increased overjet and deep bites in deciduous dentition.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Orthodontics
- Public Health
Background:
- Malocclusion prevalence varies globally, impacting oral health and function.
- Early detection and intervention in deciduous dentition are crucial for long-term dental outcomes.
- Limited data exists on malocclusion prevalence in preschool children in Nairobi, Kenya.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of malocclusion in the deciduous dentition of children aged 3-6 years in Nairobi, Kenya.
- To identify specific types of malocclusion and occlusal patterns in this population.
- To inform the need for interceptive orthodontic treatment.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study involving 221 children aged 3-6 years.
- Participants were randomly selected from six preprimary schools in Nairobi.
- Clinical examination assessed malocclusion types, including overjet, bite depth, midline displacement, openbite, crossbite, and molar relationship.
Main Results:
- Overall malocclusion prevalence was 51%.
- Common findings included maxillary overjet (13%), deep bite (13%), frontal openbite (12%), and anterior crossbite (5%).
- Majority of children had anthropoid spaces (85%) and incisor spacing (over 60%). Straight terminal plane observed in 53% of deciduous second molars.
Conclusions:
- A significant proportion of young children in Nairobi present with malocclusion.
- The findings highlight the need for early orthodontic screening and interceptive treatment.
- Further research on the etiological factors and long-term management is warranted.
Abstract:
The prevalence of malocclusion in the deciduous dentition of 221 children aged 3-6 years in Nairobi, Kenya is reported. The children were drawn from six randomly selected preprimary schools (kindergarten, nurseries, and pre-units) from different areas of the city. Overall, 51% of the children were found to have some form of malocclusion. Maxillary overjet accounted for 13%, deep bite 13%, dental midline displacement 6%, frontal openbite 12% and anterior crossbite 5%. Anthropoid spaces were observed in 85% of the children, while over 60% had spacing in the incisor region. Straight terminal plane of the deciduous second molars was diagnosed in 53% of the children, mesial step in 43% and distal step occlusion in one percent of the children. The results suggest a need for interceptive orthodontic treatment in some of the children.
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