Early loss of permanent molars and associated factors in schoolchildren aged 9, 12 and 15 years attending public schools in Campina Grande, Paraíba State, Brazil - doi: 10.4025/actascihealthsci.v33i1.8373

Abstract

This study evaluate the early loss of permanent molars in schoolchildren aged 9, 12 and 15 years attending public schools in the city of Campina Grande, Paraíba State, Brazil. The sample was composed of 873 randomly selected schoolchildren. The instrument for data collection was a questionnaire and a clinical chart. The following variables were analyzed: tooth loss (tooth type, localization in the dental arch and region of the arch), prevention and self-perception of oral health. The statistical analysis was done by frequency distribution and the chi-square and fisher’s exact tests were used. The results showed a prevalence of 17.2% of tooth loss without differences between genders, toothbrushing frequency and attendance to educational lectures (p > 0.05). Teeth 36 (42.5%) and 46 (33.9%) were the most frequently lost. There was association between tooth loss and age, visit to the dentist (OR = 2.19, CI95% = 1.35-3.59), satisfaction with the smile (OR = 0.40, CI95% = 0.24-0.65) and chewing difficulty (OR = 2.16, IC95%: 1.48-3.16). It may be concluded that the prevalence of early loss of permanent molars was high. It is therefore necessary to adopt immediate curative actions to reduce early tooth loss.