Evaluating Oral Health Status among Students in Municipal Schools of Mumbai – A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

The overall prevalence of dental caries among individuals aged 3 to 75 years in India is approximately 54.16% and the burden is ever increasing. This cross-sectional study aimed at mapping oral health status among government school children in Mumbai. The study focused on identifying the prevalence of dental caries and tobacco consumption among students. The study involved 94 randomly selected schools, focusing on healthy 9th and 10th-grade students in M.C.G.M-run schools. A close-ended questionnaire assessed demographics, oral hygiene practices, and tobacco use, followed by oral examinations for dental caries and hygiene status, with subsequent oral health education provided to all students. A high prevalence of dental caries (62.6%) and tobacco use (5.1%) was observed among 14-16-year-old students, emphasizing the urgent need for habit interception and oral health education. To progress, Indian health systems must collaborate to promote oral healthcare for all children, with a focus on disease prevention, especially among disadvantaged backgrounds and those with special healthcare needs. Key Words Mumbai schools, Oral health status, Prevention, School students, Teachers training