Reasons and pattern of tooth extractions among 2-16 years old dental patients in Maiduguri: A retrospective study

Abstract

Objective: The study aimed to determine the reasons and pattern of tooth extractions among 2-16 years old dental out-patients in Maiduguri.

Methods: The study was cross-sectional and retrospective. The study population consisted of children aged 2-16 years who had at least one tooth extracted over a period of two years at Child Dental Health Department of University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital. Ethical clearance was obtained from University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital Ethical Committee. Record of patients seen from January 2018 to December 2019 were retrieved using a pro-forma. Information obtained included: patient’s age, gender, indication for the extraction and tooth extracted.

Results: A total of 340 teeth from two hundred and forty-four children were included in the study. 169 teeth from males and 171 teeth from females. The mean age of subjects was 8.76 ± 2.785years. Dental caries and complications was the leading reason for extraction (50%), followed by orthodontic reason, 129 (37.9%) and then trauma, 16 (4.7%). More primary teeth (311) were extracted than their permanent counterpart (29). The mandibular right first primary molar tooth was the tooth mostly extracted.

Conclusion: The study revealed that there is need for improved oral health awareness and oral health promotion to prevent early tooth mortality.