Age related prevalence of pre-eruptive intracoronal radiolucent defects in the permanent dentition

Objective: The present study aimed to determine if the prevalence of pre-eruptive intracoronal radiolucent defects is higher for young age groups, in which there are more unerupted teeth. Study design: A retrospective study of panoramic and bitewing radiographs was conducted. An inclusion criterion was the presence of un-erupted permanent teeth with a formed and clearly visible crown. Age groups were: young (6-8 years), intermediate (9-12 years) and adults (13-53 years). Significance level was set at p≤0.05. Results: Thirteen (3.9%) pre-eruptive lesions were detected in 335 records. No lesions were found in the young group (7.4%), in the intermediate and adult age groups six and seven lesions were found, respectively. In most cases the preeruptive lesion was found in a third molar. Conclusion: The prevalence of pre-eruptive intracoronal lesions was not higher for young age groups. The prevalence of pre-eruptive intra coronal radiolucent lesions is 3.9%, irrespective of age.