Prevalence of dental caries and treatment needs in the school going children in north zone, Rajasthan (India) - An observational study Jasuja Purshottam, Professor & HOD, Verma Kanika G, Reader, Jasuja Tanu, Lecturer, Kahlon Simarjeet, Lecturer Address for Correspondence: Dr. Purshottam Jasuja, Professor & HOD, Deptt. of Pedodontics & Preventive Dentistry Surendera Dental College & Research Institute, Sriganganagar, Rajasthan E-mail: purshottamjsj@gmail.com
Online published on 28 May, 2014. Abstract Objective To obtain information on prevalence of dental caries and corresponding treatment needs in school going children in North zone of Rajasthan state, India. Materialand Methods Atotal of 1300 children in North zone of Rajasthan state in the age group of 6 and 12 years were examined, using WHO form, to record the prevalence of dental caries and treatment needs. Statistical Analysis Used The results were subjected to statistical analysis using Chi square test. Results The prevalence of dental caries in ages 6 and 12 yrs was 54.30%, and 38.79% respectively and 46% children required some kind of dental treatment. The prevalence of dental caries and treatment need was more in boys. It was found that the DMFT score decreased with age. Conclusion Dental caries is a significant public health problem in this population. The statistical significant decreased prevalence of dental caries with age demands immediate implementation of the preventive measures, appropriate use of oral health measure and to arouse dental awareness in children at early age through regular school dental health programmes. Teachers and parents should be informed of the treatment needs and its immediate implementation. Top Keywords Prevalence, DMFT, Treatment needs, Rajasthan. Top |