[Dental health in 12-year-old children including initial lesions and dentine caries]

The aim of this study was to assess caries prevalence among 12-year-olds, including initial lesions and dentine caries (ICDAS-II criteria, Codes 0-6).

The study was conducted in 2 regions of Hesse with different group prevention programmes (in region 1 children receive regular school-based prophylaxis using fluoride varnish twice a year from 1(st)-6(th) grade, in region 2 there is no use of fluoride varnish in schools. The samples were selected by a random sampling procedure using a list of all public schools. Dental caries was recorded on surface base and the presence of sealants was recorded. Additionally, a school-based analysis was performed. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 17.0. To compare the mean caries scores of the subgroups, non-parametric tests were performed (α=0.05).

270 12-year-olds were examined in each region. Mean DF-S values were: Region 1: D1-6FS=1.61; D1+2FS=1.5; D3-6FS=0.84; D5+6FS=0.74. Region 2: D1-6FS=2.8; D1+2FS=2.3; D3-6FS=1.1; D5+6FS=0.72. In region 2 significantly more initial lesions were assessed (p=0.01, D1+2FS). The difference between the regions was not statistically significant at the level of dentine caries (p=0.531, D3-6FS and p=0.113, D5+6FS). In region 1 mean DFS values differ significantly between children with and without fissure sealants at all levels (p<0.05). The analysis for region 1 based on the type of school visited showed a significant difference of mean D1+2F-S and D1-6F-S values (p=0.01 and p=0.012, respectively).

In total, the caries prevalence in both regions was low. Differences between mean DFS values were clearer when initial lesions were included. The results point out the impact of assessing initial lesions for evaluation of prevention programs.