Patterns of balancing and compensating primary tooth extractions among paediatric dentists

Abstract

Introduction Balancing and compensating extractions (BCEs) of primary teeth aims to minimise the development of more severe malocclusions and reduce the need for subsequent complex orthodontics. Purpose To assess the demographics, practice characteristics and clinical preferences of United Kingdom paediatric dentists for BCEs of primary teeth. Methods All members of the British Society of Paediatric Dentistry were sent an electronic questionnaire. Questions offered frequency options (always/frequently, often/sometimes and rarely/never) for a range of clinical scenarios in patients up to five years and between 6-9 years. Results Of the 288 specialists invited, 67 (23.3%) completed the questionnaire. Respondents were mostly female (n = 55; 82.1%), with most working in secondary care (n = 51; 77.3%). The majority (n = 54; 81.8%) supported the application of guidelines. A total of 39 paediatric dentists (58.2%) always/frequently encountered BCEs, with 31 (46.2%) performing BCEs in over 40 patients in the past year. Additionally, 40 respondents (59.7%) reported always/frequently complying with guidelines. Data from 65 respondents indicates that 83.6% (n = 56) rarely/never made referrals to an orthodontist, while 65.7% (n = 44) rarely/never consulted an orthodontist (p <0.001). Conclusions There was variation across clinical scenarios, with good adherence to guidelines in BCEs of primary teeth among paediatric dentists. However, there was limited interdisciplinary collaboration with orthodontists.