Eruption Status of First Permanent Molar and Prevalence of Dental Caries among School Going North Indian Children: An Epidemiological Study

Abstract

Background: Dental caries is one of the most widespread oral disease affecting children and adults globally irrespective of age and gender. The prevalence of dental caries is of the immense concern and is the primary subject of many epidemiological researches being executed throughout the world. Aim: The present study aimed to assess the eruption status of first permanent molar and evaluate the prevalence of dental caries in children between 5-8 years of age Materials and Methods: A cross sectional study was carried out in 1008 children in five different schools of district Barara, Ambala, Haryana. The aim was to determine the caries free proportions, caries experience and collection of baseline data regarding the status of permanent first molars between the age groups of 5-8 years. Dental caries was assessed using dmft index using World Health Organization criteria 1997. Results: The prevalence of dental caries was more in boys of 7-8 years age group as compared to girls in the same age group (p-value 0.052). 89% of children had first permanent molar erupted between 7-8 years of age while only 27% of children of 5-6 years age group had first permanent molar erupted.