Prevalence of occlusal traits and orthodontic treatment need in 14 year-old adolescents in Northeast Italy

Abstract

AIM: Studies on prevalence of malocclusion support the planning and provision of public dental services. The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of malocclusion and occlusal traits in adolescents aged 14 years from public secondary schools in the area of Health District n.15 - Veneto region, Italy. METHODS: Study design: Cross-sectional survey. Methods: Out of a randomly selected sample of 1187 subjects, 444 adolescents (55 males, 45 females) were evaluated in the school settings according to the criteria adopted by Brunelle et al. [1996]. Alginate impressions were then taken for 380 students together with a wax bite. The occlusal traits of the cast were analysed and IOTN was established.