Prevalence of Malocclusion in Patients Visiting Nepal Police Hospital

Abstract

Background: Malocclusion is a common dental condition impacting oral health and quality of life. Understanding its prevalence and gender-specific distribution is critical for tailored clinical management and public health planning. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of malocclusion types and associated dental anomalies in a cohort of 380 patients, with a focus on gender differences.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 380 patients (203 males, 177 females) in patient visiting dental department of Nepal Police Hospital .Data were collected through clinical examinations and categorized according to Angle’s classification for malocclusion (Class I, II Div. 1, II Div. 2, III) and the presence of anomalies such as crowding, spacing, cross bite, and bite discrepancies (open, deep, scissors). Descriptive statistics were used to analyse prevalence rates and gender distributions.

Results: Class I malocclusion was the most prevalent (65.0%, n=247), followed by Class II Div. 1 (18.9%, n=72), Class III (8.4%, n=32), and Class II Div. 2 (7.6%, n=29). Crowding affected 60.5% (n=230) of patients, with males disproportionately impacted (132 males vs. 88 females). Deep bite was observed in 21.8% (n=83), showing a slight female predominance (43 females vs. 40 males). Anterior cross bite (3.2%, n=12) and posterior cross bite (1.8%, n=7) were rare but more frequent in males. Open bite occurred in 5.3% (n=20), predominantly in males . Scissors bite was absent. Gender disparities were notable in Class II subdivisions (males > females) and crowding (males > females), while Class III malocclusion was gender-neutral

Conclusion: Class I malocclusion and crowding dominate orthodontic anomalies in this population, with significant gender based variations.These findings underscore the need for gender-sensitive orthodontic interventions and highlight regional trends, such as the absence of scissors bite.