Prevalence of Root Canal Treatment for First Permanent Molars among Children:A Cross-sectional Study

Objective The First Permanent Molar (FPM) is the tooth most susceptible to caries. Various treatment modalities are available for the management of deep carious lesions, with root canal therapy (RCT). However, the literature is lacking data regarding the prevalence of RCT in FPM. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of RCT in FPM among children aged 9-18 years in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Methods Children aged 9-18 years who underwent RCT in three major treatment centers in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, between September, 2010 and June, 2019, were included in the study. A data collection form was developed to extract information from the electronic records of the patients, including demographic data and details related to the root canal-treated teeth. Results The prevalence of RCT in FPM was 3% (811/27,414) with a mean age of 14.00±2.36. The male-to- female ratio was 1:1.74. Mandibular FPM was more frequently treated with RCT compared to the maxillary FPM, and the most commonly treated teeth were lower-left FPM (36.3%). The majority of patients (79.3%) had one treated FPM. Conclusion This study provides baseline data on RCT prevalence in FPMs among children in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The findings highlight a prevalence rate of 3%, suggesting an early onset of dental disease during childhood.