Retrospective survey of dental anomalies and pathology detected on maxillary occlusal radiographs in children between 3 and 5 years of age.

PURPOSE Radiographs play an important role in the diagnosis of anomalies and pathology of the oral structures of young children as well as in the interception and management of developmental problems in the dentition. The occlusal film, commonly indicated in the young child, is a helpful tool in establishing a baseline and in revealing certain region-specific dental concerns in a timely fashion. The purpose of this retrospective study was to perform a comprehensive examination of maxillary occlusal radiographs in a clinical pediatric population and to determine the prevalence of dental anomalies and pathology in the premaxilla in children between 3 and 5 years of age. METHODS Radiographs of healthy preschool children (236 males and 264 females), who received their initial examination at the University of Texas-Houston Pediatric Dentistry Graduate Clinic during 1997 and 1998, were reviewed independently by two pediatric dentists, using a 2X magnifying lens and a standard dental light box. Interexaminer discrepancies were resolved by consultation and mutual agreement. RESULTS Ninety-two (18%) showed no evidence of dental caries, restorations, current pathological conditions, or other anomalies. Frequencies of anomalies such as congenitally missing and supernumerary teeth were consistent with other reports. CONCLUSIONS These observations emphasize the importance of obtaining intraoral radiographs on preschool children who are in apparent good dental health.