A Retrospective Panoramic Radiographic Study on Prevalence ofImpacted Teeth in South Karnataka Population

Objective: The present panoramic radiographic study was done to investigate the prevalence of impacted teeth excluding third molars in South Karnataka population. Materials and methods: This retrospective study evaluated 1050 panoramic radiographs of patients of South Karnataka population who reported to the Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology, K.V.G. Dental College, Sullia. Panoramic radiographs were examined for the presence of impacted teeth including the supernumerary teeth. Results: At least one impacted teeth was noted in 4.8% of patients. Most common impacted teeth in our study were maxillary canines (2.66%), followed by impacted supernumerary teeth (1.42%). The incidence of impacted premolars and incisor were comparatively lower (0.85% and 0.28% respectively). Conclusion: Impaction is a common dental anomaly, though the incidence can vary in different population. Knowledge about the prevalence can be helpful in treatment aspect and can be used as a valuable forensic tool.