Publication:

Age and gender distribution of patients undergoing teeth extraction: a retrospective study in a tertiary health care centre

Background Tooth extraction remains a major commonly performed procedure in developing countries. Tooth loss affects mastication, speech, aesthetics and impairs the quality of life. The number of extracted teeth can serve as an indicator for socioeconomic status or oral hygiene level. It is essential to provide awareness regarding oral hygiene maintenance and early detection of dental problems to minimise extractions. The aim of the study was to investigate the age and gender distribution of patients undergoing extraction of teeth at GVPIHC and MT, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.

Methods In this retrospective study, case records of all patients who underwent dental extractions in the department of dentistry at Gayatri Vidya Parishad institute of health care and medical technology (GVPIHC and MT) from January 2021 to December 2021 were reviewed through random sampling. Inclusion criteria included dental extraction cases in the age group of 1year to 80 years. Incomplete data of extractions was excluded. Demographic details of patients like age and gender were recorded for 972 extraction cases that were included in the study. The data collected was entered in Microsoft excel, analysed through SPSS Software and was subjected to statistical analysis.

Results Among 972 extractions, females showed predominance over males. 21-30 years age group reported more extractions and 71-80 years age group the least. On comparing the association between age and gender, the results were statistically significant (Pearson’s chi square test, p<0.05). The age group of 11-20 years, 61-70 years and 71-80 years reported male predominance in contrast to the other age groups.

Conclusions Within the limits of present study, it can be concluded that the prevalence of dental extraction was more in females than males. The age group of 21-30 years recorded more number of extractions. This study will help us to create awareness and emphasize the importance of oral hygiene maintenance among people to prevent tooth loss at an early age.