Frequency of malocclusion in an orthodontic ally referred Jordanian population

Abstract EN

Objectives : To analyze the frequency of malocclusion among patients attending outpatient orthodontic clinics at the Royal Medical Services hospitals in order to get baseline data with can be used for proper treatment planning, teaching and further research.

Methods : A total of 520 Jordanian dental patients aged 13-15 years were included in this study between 2006 and 2008.

These patients were randomly selected from four different regions in Jordan while they attended the Royal Medical Services hospitals in their regions.

None of the patients had undergone previous orthodontic treatment, and all the patients were medically free with no history of trauma or surgery that could affect occlusion.

Results : Class II and class III occlusions were found in 39% and 13% of the sample respectively.

Simple descriptive statistics were used to describe the study variables.

Malocclusion traits detected were crowding in the maxilla (44%) and in the mandible (57%).

Increase in overjet was found in 30% of the subjects and deep bite in 22%.

Conclusion : The results of this study provide baseline data on the frequency of malocclusion among 13-15 years old Jordanian children.

This data will help to decide treatment priorities among those demanding orthodontic treatment at public expense.