Pattern of tooth loss in Nigerians.
3,168 patients seeking treatment between November 1973 and March 1974 were studied in the Oral Diagnosis and Treatment Planning Unit of the Department of Preventive Dentistry. 31.94% of this study group were recommended for teeth extraction. Of those recommended for teeth extraction, the highest incidence (45.54%) was in the 7-12 years old group, and the lowest incidence (27.11%) was recorded in the group above 18 years. In the group up to six years old, there was a high percentage of loss of the deciduous molars especially the lowers (53.65% of males) and 44% of females. In the older groups there was also a high % loss of succidaneous molars particularly the lowers. The figures recorded are as follows: In the 7-12 years old 36.6% of males and 20.23% of females. In the 13-18 years old 61.3% of males and 69.29% of females. In the group above 18 years 34% of males and 44% of females. These figures show that contrary to general belief, Africans do not invariably keep their teeth perpetually. It has been shown that the incidence of Dental disease is rising. Although the demand for treatment is also increasing, there is shortage of manpower to prevent the high loss of teeth. With these facts in mind, it is our belief that ,efforts at preventive measures should be increased.
Okoisor
F
F
Department of Preventive Dentistry, College of Medicine of the University of Lagos.
Ana
J R
JR
D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009549:Nigeria / Q000453:epidemiology; D016388:Tooth Loss / Q000453:epidemiology*