Prevalence of tooth anomalies in Deciduous dentition in Indian children from rural Nagpur region

Background: Dental anomalies in deciduous dentition are commonly encountered by dental professionals. Early detection and careful management of such conditions can help in usual occlusal development. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of dental anomalies in deciduous dentition among Indian children from rural population. Materials and Methods: The study sample comprised of 2809 children from 2-8 years (1641 boys, 1168 girls). The children were examined in outpatient department of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry. Based on the clinical and radiographic examination various anomalies were determined. Results: The dental anomalies were observed in 42 children in a population of 2809 with an overall prevalence rate of 1.5% with double teeth (0.5%) and hypodontia (0.6%), the most frequently observed anomaly. The other anomalies followed as 0.2% supernumerary teeth, 0.07% microdontia, 0.1% talon cusp. Conclusion: Identification of dental anomalies at an early age is of great importance as it prevents malocclusions, functional and certain psychological problems.