Radiographic Assessment of the Prevalence of Pulp Stones in Malaysians

Introduction: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of pulp stones in the Malaysian population using radiographs, and to assess the association of pulp stones with gender, age, tooth type, dental arch and tooth status. Occurrence of pulp stones among the three races in Malaysia (Malay, Chinese and Indians) was also studied.

Methods: A retrospective study was performed from a random sample of 361 dental records in AIMST Dental Centre, Faculty of Dentistry, AIMST University, Kedah, Malaysia. Data were collected from patient files and 507 intraoral periapical radiographs. All radiographs were examined by an oral radiologist to identify pulp stones and associated factors. Statistical analysis was performed using the Pearson chi-square test.

Results: Of the 361 patients, 205 were female and 156 were male. Pulp stones were identified in 162 (44.9%) subjects in 1 or more teeth and in 280 (15.7%) teeth of the total 1779 teeth examined. Pulp stones were found significantly more in molars and teeth that were not intact (carious/restored/both carious and restored). There was no significant correlation with sex, increasing age, dental arches, and ethnic races.

Conclusions: The prevalence of pulp stones in the Malaysian population studied was 44.9%. Pulp stones were more often seen in teeth that were restored or affected with caries. These findings require further investigation.