“The delayed shedding of the primary front teeth, and its relationship to the location of the permanent teeth, for students in the first cycle of primary school.”

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between delayed exfoliation of primary anterior teeth and the positioning of permanent teeth among pupils in the first stage of basic education, as well as identifying the contributing factors and their health, behavioral, and psychosocial implications.

The study adopted the descriptive analytical method, which is suitable for examining relationships among variables. The sample consisted of 55 dentists and dental specialists selected from clinics and health centers in Tripoli, representing 13.75% of the total population.

The research instrument was a structured questionnaire covering oral health status, primary tooth exfoliation, permanent tooth positioning, oral hygiene practices, and medical and familial history.

The results revealed a statistically significant relationship between delayed exfoliation of primary teeth and abnormalities in permanent tooth positioning. Oral hygiene behavior, particularly the frequency of tooth brushing, was identified as the most influential factor. The study also showed a high prevalence of malocclusion problems such as crowding, protrusion, and misalignment. Biological factors such as reduced jaw size and nutritional deficiencies also contributed, along with potential psychological and social impacts on children.