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Caries prevalence, severity, and pattern in preschool children
1Pediatric Dentistry at King Saud University College of Dentistry in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saludi Arabia. ahwyne@gmail.ocm
The Journal of Contemporary Dental Practice
|March 13, 2008
Summary
Dental caries is highly prevalent in Riyadh
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Public Health
Background:
- Dental caries poses a significant global health challenge, particularly in young children.
- Understanding regional variations in caries is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the prevalence, severity, and pattern of dental caries in preschool children in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
- To identify demographic and institutional factors associated with caries in this population.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 789 preschool children (mean age 4.7 years) in Riyadh.
- Caries assessment using World Health Organization (WHO) diagnostic criteria.
- Data collection included demographic information and preschool type (government vs. private).
Main Results:
- Overall caries prevalence was 74.8% with a mean decayed, missing, and filled teeth (dmft) score of 6.1.
- Caries prevalence and severity were significantly higher in children attending government preschools compared to private ones.
- Mandibular second molars and maxillary central incisors showed the highest caries prevalence among posterior and anterior teeth, respectively.
Conclusions:
- Dental caries is highly prevalent and severe among preschool children in Riyadh.
- Posterior teeth are most commonly affected, with a high proportion of children experiencing both anterior and posterior tooth decay.
- Preventive strategies like fissure sealants and topical fluoride are recommended for high-caries populations.
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