Malocclusion and facial types in a group of Saudi Arabian patients referred for orthodontic treatment: a preliminary study.

Dental malocclusion is present in all societies but its prevalence varies. There is a need to identify the occlusal problems, their incidence and the need for treatment so that appropriate manpower arrangements may be made. In this initial survey, patients attending the orthodontic clinic at the Riyadh Armed Forces Hospital were examined for occlusal relationship, crowding, and facial type. There are indications amongst Saudi Arabian patients of a tendency for bimaxillary proclination and a greater proportion of Class III malocclusion, than in Western communities. The need for a comprehensive survey is identified.