REASONS FOR AND TYPE OF TEETH EXTRACTED AT A TERTIARY CENTRE IN NORTH CENTRAL NIGERIA

REASONS FOR TOOTH EXTRACTIONS

Abstract

Background: Tooth extraction is a commonly carried out procedure in dental clinics.  Few reports exist on the pattern of extraction in North-central Nigeria.

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the primary reason for tooth extraction in Ilorin, North central Nigeria. 

Materials and Method: A retrospective review of all patients who had extractions at the dental clinic of University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Ilorin, Kwara State, North Central Nigeria between May 2017 and April 2019 was done. Data such as age, sex, teeth extracted and reasons for extraction were retrieved and analyzed.

Results: A total of 566 case files were studied and 760 extractions were reviewed. Patients ages ranged from 4 to 88 years. Most patients were in the 20 - 29 year age group accounting for 23.1% of cases. Dental caries (59.4%) was the most common indication for extraction followed by dental trauma and periodontal problems (18.7% and 16.3% respectively). Logistic regression of extraction due to caries on predictors age and sex revealed no statistical significance.

Conclusion: Dental caries was the major reason for tooth extractions followed by dental trauma and periodontal problems. There is need for increased oral health awareness and early dental presentation.