The effect of premature extraction of primary teeth on the subsequent need for orthodontic treatment

Abstract

Aim: To investigate if premature extraction of primary teeth was associated with orthodontic need in the permanent dentition. Study design: This was a case–control study based on retrospective dental records. Methods: As part of NHS (UK) Dental Epidemiology Programme a sample of 366, 12-year-old children from Bradford and Airedale were examined. The survey collected data on patient demographics, dental health status including orthodontic need. Data linkage was undertaken for those children participating in the NHS Dental Epidemiology Programme who had previously accessed the local Salaried Dental Service (SDS). For these children, retrospective dental information was collected about premature extraction of primary teeth. Results: From the 366 children who were surveyed, 116 children had received treatment at the local SDS in the past. Significantly more children from ethnic minorities, low socioeconomic backgrounds and high caries rate (p < 0.001) were seen in the SDS. For the 107 children who attended SDS, an increased total number of primary teeth extractions was positively associated with orthodontic need (odds ratio:1.18, CI −1.01 to 1.37). Statisctics: Multilevel modelling was undertaken to identify variables associated with orthodontic need. Conclusions: In the study group, orthodontic need was significantly associated with the number of primary teeth extracted.