Prevalence of Malocclusion among School Children in Dhaka

Abstract

Malocclusion is a common oral health problem among school-aged children and may adversely affect mastication, speech, facial aesthetics, and psychosocial well-being. Early identification of malocclusion is essential for timely preventive and interceptive orthodontic care. However, epidemiological data on the burden and pattern of malocclusion among school children in Dhaka remain limited. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and distribution of malocclusion among school children in Dhaka, Bangladesh. This prospective observational study was conducted at Mandy Dental Medical College, Dhaka, from July 2024 to June 2025. A total of 1,050 school children were selected using purposive sampling. Clinical oral examinations were performed using standard orthodontic diagnostic criteria to assess occlusal characteristics, including Angle’s classification, overjet, overbite, crowding, spacing, crossbite, and open bite. Data were recorded using a structured checklist and analyzed using SPSS version 23.0. Descriptive statistics were used to determine prevalence and distribution patterns. The overall prevalence of malocclusion was 63.8% among 1,050 school children. Class I malocclusion was the most common type (41.6%), followed by Class II (15.2%) and Class III (7.0%). Dental crowding (27.4%) and increased overjet (18.9%) were the predominant occlusal traits. Anterior open bite showed a significant association with younger age groups. Malocclusion is highly prevalent among school children in Dhaka, with Class I malocclusion and dental crowding being the most common. Early orthodontic screening and preventive interventions are essential to reduce future treatment complexity and improve oral health outcomes.  

CBMJ 2026 July: Vol. 15 No. 02 P:260-266