The prevalence of malocclusion traits in Saudi Arabia 2015-2019: An epidemiological cross sectional study

Background: Malocclusion is one of the most prevalent dental problems. The prevalence of malocclusion differs globally among various populations. It is essential to estimate its prevalence in order to allocate proper resources for preventive strategies and intervention plans. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the status of malocclusion among school children in Al Kharj city, Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods: This is a cross-sectional study. A group of 680 school children in Al Kharj city, Saudi Arabia, aged 11-14 years participated in the study. The occlusal parameters recorded in this study were molars relationship, overbite, crowding, midline diastema, anterior open bite, anterior crossbite, and posterior crossbite, using gloves, light source, mouth mirror, and ruler. Results: A Class-I molars relationship was observed in 84.9% of the total sample, whereas Class-II and -III molars relationships were observed in 9% and 6.2%, respectively. Normal overbite was found in 87.1%. The most widespread orthodontic problem was crowding (40.3%), followed by midline diastema (29.6%). A posterior crossbite was found in 3.8% of the sample, whereas 11.76% had an anterior crossbite. Conclusion: Crowding has the highest level of frequency among orthodontic problems. Class I, normal overjet, and normal overbite were frequent findings among Saudi adolescents in Al Kharj city.