Magnitude and determinants of exodontia in South Batinah region of Oman: A cross sectional study.

OBJECTIVES: To estimate the magnitude, determinants and causes of exodontia presented at all the three dental units of South Batinah region of Oman.

METHODS: This is a cross sectional study of 8,963 samples representing dental cases reported at the three dental units for 12 weeks in year 2000. The information on patients undergoing exodontia and its indications were collected from their case files. Standard definitions were used to categorise causes of exodontia. Mid 2000 population was used as reference for calculating rates. Age-sex standardisation and 95% confidence interval of the exodontia rates were calculated for statistical validation.

RESULTS: The annual exodontia rate was 16.67 per 1,000 population (CI95% 16.52, 16.82). The rate in males was 11.56 (CI95% 11.40, 11.73) and and in females, 40.04 (CI95% 39.73, 40.34). The rate in the 12+ age group was significantly higher than that in the 0-12 age group. The rates showed geographic differences.

CONCLUSIONS: The exodontia rates were high in the study area. Exodontia rates were significantly higher in females, persons older than 12 years, and those living in the coastal areas of South Batinah. Based on the exodontia rates, the impact on the oral health services was reviewed and recommendations for improving the dental care were proposed.