Abstract
Objectives:To determine the prevalence of dental caries, and associated social risk factors among preschool children in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.Methods:The study consisted of a random sample of 3 to 5 years- old preschool children who were examined in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; 388 children (184 boys and 204 girls) were examined from 10 different preschools. Each surface of their teeth was examined for dental caries utilizing modified WHO criteria (WHO, 1997). Data information about age, gender and social factors status were obtained by questionnaires that had been answered by parents.Results:About 69% of children had dental caries with dmft score of 3.4 (± 3.6) and dmfs of 6.9 (± 9.9). There was no statistically significant difference between boys and girls. Less caries was observed among children whose parents worked and it was statistically significant as well as whose mothers had high or low educational level. Increased number of family members appeared to have a high incidence of dental caries which was also statistically significant. There was no significant difference in dental caries prevalence with birth order.Conclusions:Dental caries among preschool children in Saudi Arabia was still very common. Improvement of preventive measure at early age should be emphasized by parents and dental health professionals. More attention is required for Non-working parents telling them about the risk of dental caries affecting their children and the awareness of preventive care of dental health.
Highlights
In spite of recent improvement in awareness about oral and dental health among public; dental caries remains a significant problem especially in developing countries
Since Saudi Arabia is a large, multicultural country; caries prevalence varies in its different regions and cities
The caries prevalence was high in older children than younger children (32% in 3-year-olds, 67% in 4-yearolds and 75% in5-year-olds children), the difference was not statistically significant (P=0.229) [Fig.1]
Summary
In spite of recent improvement in awareness about oral and dental health among public; dental caries remains a significant problem especially in developing countries. Historically; children in developing countries have high caries prevalence; such as China (85%),[1] India (53%)[2] and South Africa (49%)[3] as compared to developed countries such as England (32%)[4] and Italy (16%).[5] Since Saudi Arabia is a large, multicultural country; caries prevalence varies in its different regions and cities. Caries prevalence is high in most regions and cities of Saudi Arabia. A recent study in Jeddah among preschool children found a high caries prevalence of 89%.6. A study by Wyne[7] in Riyadh reported a caries prevalence of 74.8% with a mean dmft score of 6.1 in preschool children A recent study in Jeddah among preschool children found a high caries prevalence of 89%.6 A study by Wyne[7] in Riyadh reported a caries prevalence of 74.8% with a mean dmft score of 6.1 in preschool children
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