Pattern of Exodontia treatment need of adults attending the Lagos University Teaching Hospital Dental Clinic

Abstract

Aim and Objective: To determine the pattern of tooth loss among adults attending the Lagos University Teaching Hospital Dental Centre.

Materials and Methods: The sample was retrieved from dental records of the oral diagnosis unit of the department of Preventive Dentistry of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital from September 2001 to April 2004. Data collected reduced demographic records, type of teeth indicated for extraction and other treatment recommended (i.e. periodontal, conservative dentistry, prosthetic, biopsy, fracture management). Data collected was analyzed using Epi, info software. Statistical significance was put at P<0.05.

Results: Of the adults attending the dental centre, 30.7% required extractions while 28.1% and 24.6% required periodontal and restorative care respectively. Of those who needed extraction, majority were in the 25-34 years age group (32.6%). Fewer teeth were lost with increasing age and this was statistically significant (P<0.05). The most frequent tooth type indicated for extraction were molars (87.0%) when compared to incisors (7.6%) and premolars (5.3%) with an almost equal distribution in either sex. Of the molars extracted, the commonest one for extraction was the lower third molar (22.3%) followed closely by the lower first molar.
Conclusion: Tooth extraction appears to be the predominant treatment need with the molars being the most frequently extracted tooth type in particular the lower last molar. This would affect masticatory efficiency. Emphasis should be placed on early and regular dental clinic visits through oral health awareness programmes on the mass media.


NQJHM Vol. 15 (2) 2005: pp. 106-109