Epidemiology of dental caries among preparatory school children (12–15 years old) in Shebin El-Kom District, Menoufia Governorate

Abstract

Objective Estimating the prevalence of dental caries in preparatory school children as well as identifying the possible risk factors and determining the correlation between dental caries and total antioxidant capacity in saliva in the studied group. Background Dental caries is one of the most common chronic diseases affecting millions of people globally, with high prevalence even in adolescents, ranging from 60 to 90%, and it is a major cause of tooth loss, pain, and discomfort worldwide. However, it does not have an inevitable outcome as some of the risk factors can be modified and caries can be prevented. Patients and methods A case–control design nested in a cross-sectional study was carried out in Menoufia Governorate. This study was carried out in Shebin El-Kom district. The study sample consisted of 1283 (651 males and 632 females) children. Saliva samples and questionnaire were collected through school visits. Total antioxidant capacity in saliva was assessed in all of the collected samples. Results Prevalence of dental caries was 62.8%, with decayed, missed, and filled Teeth index score of 1.3 ± 1.32. There was a significant relationship between children with dental caries and ones without caries regarding dietary habits and habitual optimal teeth brushing (P Conclusion Prevalence of dental caries is high among preparatory school children. To face this problem, there should be a program carried out by the government, especially Ministry of Education and Ministry of Health, targeted toward both children and their parents through different public media approaches. Programs should focus on the optimal teeth brushing and the healthy nutritional habits needed for better teeth health.