TITLE:
Assessment of First Permanent Molar Management in the Pediatric Dentistry Department of the Casablanca Center for Dental Consultations and Treatments
AUTHORS:
Najia Laâroussi, Zineb AL Jalil, Laîla Ait Tihyaty, Rim EL Abdouni Khayari, Samira EL Arabi, Sanae Bensouda
KEYWORDS:
First Permanent Molar, Pediatric Dentistry, Dental Caries, Preventive Dentistry, Pulp Therapy, Patient Cooperation
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Access Library Journal,
Vol.13 No.5,
May
22,
2026
ABSTRACT: Introduction: The first permanent molar (FPM) is a key component of the dentition, ensuring occlusal stability and arch integrity. Its early eruption and masticatory function make it highly susceptible to caries. This study aims to describe therapeutic interventions for FPM based on records of children attending the Pediatric Dentistry Department of the Consultation and Dental Treatment Center (CCTD) of Casablanca. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using pediatric patient records collected between September 2018 and July 2019. Data included socio-demographic characteristics, chief complaint, general and psychological status, FPM condition and maturity, treatments performed, adherence, and referrals. Results: Among 365 records, 98.1% presented at least one decayed FPM. Preventive and restorative treatments predominated (74.6%) compared to pulp therapies (13.8%), prosthetic treatments (1.1%), and extractions (1.6%). Psychological assessment showed 87.7% of children were cooperative. Twenty-two percent abandoned pulp therapy before completion. Most FPM were treated in a single session, though up to seven sessions were required in some cases. Non-carious conditions, particularly molar-incisor hypomineralization (MIH), were rare. Discussion: The high prevalence of decayed FPM confirms that dental caries remain a major issue in Moroccan children. The predominance of preventive and restorative treatments suggests early detection and timely management. Limited pulp therapies and extractions indicate effective preservation of tooth vitality. Treatment abandonment highlights challenges related to compliance and treatment duration, while the high cooperation rate reflects effective behavioral management. Low MIH incidence confirms caries as the main cause of FPM deterioration. Conclusion: These findings emphasize the importance of integrating preventive dentistry into pediatric practice to reduce FPM caries and minimize the need for multiple therapeutic sessions, optimizing oral health outcomes.