Dental Health among Green Marble Mine Laborers, India

Abstract

ABSTRACTObjectiveTo determine the oral health status among Green Marble Mine laborers; to provide epidemiological data for planning and evaluation of oral health care programme.MethodsThe study area was divided into 4 geographic zones, and participants were selected by stratified cluster sampling technique. A total of 513 subjects were included in final study which were divided among the four age cohort (18-25, 26-34, 35-44, 45-more respectively), following the guidelines for research methodology recommended by WHO oral health surveys 1997. Clinical examination was conducted by one of the three examiners with the aid of an artificial light sorce. The agreement (kappa statistics) for diagnosis of DMFT and CPI was determined (field teams versus expert) 91.2 % two days prior to the examination. Data was analyzed using Bivariate and multivariate analysis.ResultsThe mean DMFT and DMFS scores were (2.79±2.44) and (5.47±5.40) respectively. The caries prevalence was 71.1% with maximum in 25-34 years while 148 participants were caries free. A higher prevalence of periodontal disease was present with only 1.75% having healthy gingiva. Mean number of sextant involved was maximum among 35-44 years. Alcohol and Stress due to physical load and noisy environment among laborers have shown highly significant relationship with CPI scores (P<0.001). Fracture of tooth, mainly maxillary central incisor was high (10.5%) as an occupational peril.ConclusionsThe findings highlighted the low caries prevalence, higher periodontal disease which requires primary anticipation. Prevention of tooth fracture and improvement of overall nutritional status, with stress reduction protocol should also be given consideration.