Journal of AdvancedMedical and Dental Sciences Research

Hypodontia, or tooth agenesis, is the most prevalent craniofacial malformation in human. It may occur as part of a recognized genetic syndrome or nonsyndromic trait as well. Both environmental and genetic factors are involved in the etiology of hypodontia, with the latter playing a more significant role. Excluding third molar, the reported prevalence of hypodontia ranges from 1.8 to 7.2 % depending on the population of the study group. Aims: The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence and distribution of hypodontia in permanent dentition in children of North Bihar. Materials and Methods: In this study, panoramic radiographs of 2000 children (981 girls and 1019 boys), aged 7 to 14 years were recorded and inspected for anomalies in the number of teeth. Statistical Analysis Used: The data was analyzed using SPSS version 10.00 (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, Chicago, USA. Results: The prevalence of hypodontia in this study was 4.7%, and the most frequently absent tooth was the maxillary lateral incisor. There was an increased prevalence of hypodontia in males and in the mandibular arch of the permanent dentition. Conclusions: The prevalence of hypodontia in a North Bihar population was 4.7%, which was found to be in accordance with the findings of most of the published population studies on prevalence of hypodontia in India. Prompt diagnosis of these anomalies can help in diagnosis and plan treatment modalities at an early age to establish a functional and esthetic harmony. Key words: Hypodontia, Prevalence, Orthopantomograph.