Assessment of Early Orthodontic Treatment Need Using Index for Preventive and Interceptive Orthodontic Treatment Needs Index: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Background: An increased risk of malocclusion exists with mixed dentition. Many indices have been provided in order to evaluate malocclusion and intercept it. The Index for Preventive and Interceptive Orthodontic Treatment Need (IPION) is an assessment that identifies a patient’s need for preventive and interceptive orthodontic care in mixed dentition. Aim: This study aims at assessing early orthodontic intervention using the IPION. Materials and methods: A total of 60 children were selected from the outpatient department. A series of clinical examinations were conducted to record the scores according to the IPION. Results: The study comprised a greater number of females compared to males, with 33 females (55%) and 27 males (45%). The median IPION index score was 3.0, with an interquartile range of 3.0–4.0. It was observed that 80% of the children did not require orthodontic treatment, while the remaining 20% were identified as needing moderate orthodontic intervention. Conclusion: Dental caries is a predominant factor observed within the population. To improve the precision of the IPION in evaluating the necessity for preventive and interceptive treatments, modifications may be required. This is especially relevant in addressing issues related to the spacing of anterior teeth in both primary and permanent dentition. Clinical significance: This study aims to identify factors responsible for malocclusion.

Keywords

• index
• interceptive orthodontics
• preventive orthodontics
• tooth crowding