Prevalence of Dental Deep bite in Nepalese Adolescents of Kathmandu Valley

Abstract

Introduction: Deep bite is defined as vertical overlap of upper teeth on the labial surface of lower teeth in centric occlusion when exceeds the normal range of 1-2 mm. Deep bite can be classified into skeletal and dental deep bite. Skeletal deep bites are usually of genetic origin. Dental deep bites occur due to over-eruption of anterior teeth, infra-occlusion of molars or its combination. It may jeopardize the periodontal support, occlusion itself or TMJ.

Methods: It is a cross-sectional descriptive study. The study population included 14–18-year-old adolescents studying in high school of all three districts of Kathmandu Valley. An evaluation form was developed categorizing different levels of deep bite following WHO guidelines 1985 and accordingly data were recorded on it.

Results: Out of 935 screened students 80.4% had Normal bite and 19.6% had Deep bite.2.7%had Severe deep bite but no trauma to palatal mucosa whereas 3.8% had traumatic bite. Normal overbite in Female was 84% and male was 77.7%. Deep bite in male was 22.3% and female was 16%.

Conclusion: The prevalence of dental deep bite was found to be 1/4th of normal overbite in Nepalese adolescents of Kathmandu valley. Prevalence of severe deep bite with trauma to palatal mucosa was relatively higher than with to trauma. Females showed higher prevalence of normal overbite than males whereas males showed higher prevalence of deep bite than females.