Dental anomalies among Adolescents Aged 14-16 Year Old in Rural Communities in Edo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Dentalanomalies can occur among children in rural communities. The aim of the study is to determine the prevalence, types of dental anomalies and association of age, sex and socio-economic status with dental anomalies among adolescents aged 14-16 year old in rural communities in Edo state, Nigeria

Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study among 14-16 years old was conducted inpublicschools selected in Esan Central and Uhunmwonde Local Government Area of Edo State. Ethical clearance was sought and obtained from Health Research Ethics committee, Edo State Ministry of Health. Informed consent was obtained from the parents of the school children and assent was obtained from the school children.Socio-demographic data was obtained using questionnaire. Tests of association between dependent variable and independent variables were conducted using Chi square/ Fisher exact test. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS Version 28. p<0.05 were accepted as being statistically significant.

Results: A total of 244 adolescents were examined and 119 (48.8%) were males. The prevalence of dental anomalies was 7.4%. Dental anomalies were higher among males and 15 years old. The types of dentalanomalies seen were enamel hypoplasia/opacity, tetracycline staining and dental fluorosis. There was no statistically significant association between sex (p = 0.628) age (p = 0.121) socio-economic status (p= 0.054) and dental anomalies.

Conclusion: The prevalence of dental anomalies was 7.4%. Enamel hypoplasia was the most common dental anomaly seen. Oral health education with anticipatory guidance and a visit to dental clinic for clinical management is recommended.

JBRMC, Volume 08   Issue 02  July 2026 ; 38-41