Relationship Between Social and Behavioural Factors and Caries Experience in Schoolchildren in Italy

The aims of this study were to: 1) determine the oral health status of Campanian (Italy) 5- and 12-year-old schoolchildren; 2) establish an oral health baseline prior to introducing promotion and prevention strategies and appropriate healthcare for specific groups; 3) provide the starting point for monitoring changes over time according to the World Health Organization 2020 global goals for oral health.

A cross-sectional observational study was performed on schoolchildren from public schools. 828 children were clinically evaluated, recording DMFT, dmft and SiC (Significant Caries Index). A questionnaire investigating demographic and oral health behaviour was completed by parents.

56.6% of the 5-year-old children were caries free (deciduous dentition) and the mean dmft value was 1.44 ± 2.13. In 12-year-old children, caries prevalence was 35.8%. The mean DMFT value was 1.17 ± 1.96, while the SiC was 3.42 ± 1.97. There were significant relationships between dmft/DMFT (caries experience) and family income level (p < 0.001), mother's educational level (p < 0.001) and history of recent dental visits (p < 0.01).

Information drawn from this study can be helpful to describe future and specific dental prevention programmes in order to reduce caries incidence and promote better oral health in the Campania region of Italy.