PATTERN AND FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH DISPLACEMENT OF PERMANENT INCISORS IN PATIENTS ATTENDING A TERTIARY HOSPITAL IN LAGOS

DISPLACEMENT OF PERMANENT INCISORS IN A TERTIARY HOSPITAL IN LAGOS

Abstract

Introduction

Displacement of permanent incisors may have a negative impact on aesthetics which would affect an individual’s self - esteem and social life because of the prominent anterior position of the incisors. It could also result in poor oral health and functional impairment. There is however paucity of information on its pattern of presentation among Nigerians.

Objective

The study aimed to describe the distribution pattern and aetiological factors associated with displaced permanent incisors.

Methodology

A retrospective study of 234 participants that presented with displaced permanent incisor(s) attending both the Paediatric dentistry and Orthodontic units of Child Dental Health Department at Lagos State University Teaching Hospital between January 2018 and June 2021. The data was retrieved from the patients’ records at the Records Department of the hospital. All the data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences Version 20.0 for Windows (SPSS Inc., Chicago, Illinois, USA). Numerical data were presented using tables and graphs. Any significant differences and possible associations among variables were compared using Chi-square test and logistic regression.

Results

The mean age of the subjects was 12.6 (±7.8) years with a male to female ratio of 1:1.27. Retained teeth formed the highest aetiologic factor (53.4%) with significance (p = 0.01), the lateral incisor was the commonest displaced tooth in 123 subjects while the upper arch was the commonest location (56.4%) of displacement. Binary logistic regression revealed age groups as the only associated factor determining tooth displacement (p = 0.013).

Conclusion

Aetiology and age group had significant relationship with tooth displacement. Parents and caregivers are advised to monitor any displacement and seek early intervention to prevent the need for more extensive treatments or orthodontic therapy.