Prevalence and Risk Factors for Orthodontic Treatment Needs in Pre-adolescents: A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: Malocclusion is a prevalent dental issue in pre-adolescents, with significant implications for oral health, aesthetics, and psychosocial well-being. Understanding its prevalence and associated risk factors is crucial for early diagnosis and effective intervention. Aim: To determine the prevalence of orthodontic treatment needs and identify the associated risk factors in pre-adolescents aged 9–12 years. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 240 pre-adolescents aged 9–12 years in an urban setting. Participants were evaluated through clinical dental examinations and structured questionnaires addressing risk factors such as oral hygiene, thumb-sucking, family history of malocclusions, and socioeconomic status. Statistical analyses, including logistic regression, were performed to identify significant associations, with a P value < 0.05 considered significant. Results: The prevalence of orthodontic treatment needs was 25.8% (95% CI: 20.6%–31.0%). Significant risk factors included poor oral hygiene (22.1%, P = 0.004), thumb-sucking (28.3%, P = 0.0001), family history of malocclusions (32.9%, P = 0.0001), and premature loss of baby teeth (16.7%, P = 0.032). Socioeconomic status and access to dental care also emerged as strong determinants. Early orthodontic interventions were found to reduce malocclusion severity and improve dental alignment significantly ( P < 0.0005). Conclusion: This study highlights a substantial need for orthodontic treatment in pre-adolescents and identifies key modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies and broader populations for more comprehensive insights. Clinical Significance: Early diagnosis and timely interventions are critical to minimizing the burden of orthodontic issues and improving oral healthcare outcomes in this age group.