Prevalence of malocclusion and orthodontic treatment needs among 12-15-year-old schoolchildren of fishermen of Kutch coast, Gujarat, India

Background: Malocclusion is one of the most common dental problems in mankind. Planning orthodontic treatment as well as an interceptive approach within a public health system requires information on the prevalence of malocclusions. Aim: The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of malocclusion and orthodontic treatment needs among 12-15-year-old schoolchildren of fishermen of Kutch coast, Gujarat, India. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted among 947 schoolchildren of fishermen of Kutch coast, Gujarat, India aged 12-15 years. The prevalence of malocclusion and orthodontic treatment needs was assessed using Dental Aesthetic Index. General information on demographic data was also recorded. A chi(2) test, analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Sheffe's test were employed for statistical analysis. Results: Malocclusion and orthodontic treatment need was reported among 33.4% of the participants. Younger age group and female gender had significantly greater treatment need. Males and older age groups had significantly lesser prevalence of anterior crowding and largest anterior maxillary irregularity. Conclusions: Orthodontic treatment need among 33.4% calls for developing school based oral health promotion programmes for children with an inculcation of orthodontic treatment and educational programmes for parents (fishermen) addressing prevention and early interceptive treatment of malocclusion.