International Journal of Research and Reports in Dentistry

Aim: To assess the prevalence and distribution of developmental disturbances affecting the maxilla and mandible, including micrognathia, macrognathia, dental arch abnormalities, and cleft palate, and to evaluate their association with age and gender.

Study Design: Cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at RVS Dental College and Hospital, Coimbatore, among patients attending the dental clinic and outreach camps over a defined period.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 individuals aged 12–40 years, selected via non-probability convenience sampling from patients attending the dental clinic at RVS Dental College and Hospital and outreach camps in Coimbatore. Developmental disturbances, including micrognathia, macrognathia, malocclusion (Class II Division 1, II Division 2, III), and cleft palate, were assessed clinically using a mouth mirror and probe. Examiners were trained and calibrated (Cohen’s kappa >0.80). Sample size was calculated using standard population proportion formula. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 28 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA), with frequencies, percentages, and Chi-square tests to evaluate associations with age and gender (p < 0.05).

Clinical Implications: Early identification of developmental disturbances facilitates timely intervention, enabling multidisciplinary management by dentists, orthodontists, and maxillofacial specialists. Routine screening, particularly during adolescence, can prevent functional and aesthetic complications, improve oral health outcomes, and guide appropriate referral for orthodontic or surgical care.

Results: Out of 400 individuals, Class II Division 1 malocclusion was most prevalent (15%), followed by Class III (10%) and Class II Division 2 (8%). Micrognathia and macrognathia were observed in 5% and 4% of individuals, respectively, while cleft palate was the least common anomaly (1.5%). A higher prevalence of developmental disturbances was observed among males and younger individuals; however, the association between gender and anomalies was not statistically significant (p = 0.16). Similarly, the association between age and occurrence of anomalies was also not statistically significant (p = 0.24).

Conclusion: Developmental disturbances of the maxilla and mandible are relatively common and can significantly affect function, aesthetics, and overall oral health. Early diagnosis and timely intervention are essential to optimize functional outcomes and facilitate effective multidisciplinary management. Routine clinical screening, particularly during adolescence, along with school-based dental programs, enables early detection, preventive strategies, and appropriate referral for orthodontic or surgical care. Clinically, these findings highlight the need for dentists, orthodontists, and maxillofacial specialists to collaborate in identifying anomalies, planning individualized treatment, and minimizing long-term complications. Implementing such strategies can improve patient outcomes, prevent progression of malocclusion or skeletal discrepancies, and enhance overall quality of life.