FREQUENCY OF DEVELOPMENTAL MAXILLARY MID-LINE DIASTEMA IN RAIWIND REGION, LAHORE

Abstract

The objective of this study was to determine the frequency of developmental maxillary mid-line diastema in different age groups of Raiwind school children. This cross-sectional study was performed in elementary school children whose ages were between 6 to 12 years. Total 700 children were screened and 511 were selected for this study (269 boys and 242 girls). Maxillary mid-line diastema widths were measured clinically with a Boley’s gauge at 1.0mm above the incisal edge. Data was stratified for age and gender. Post- stratification chi-square test was applied with p value <0.05 as significant. At 6 years of age 80% girls and 60% boys had diastema, whereas, at age 12, 8.3% girls and 12.1% boys had midline diastema. Therefore it is necessary to consider gender difference when doing orthodontic treatment planning for midline diastema.