Study of the Prevalence of Dental Caries and Malocclusion in a Population of Primary School Pupils in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

Abstract

Introduction: In order to improve the prevention and treatment of caries as well as to increase knowledge regarding malocclusions in Burkina Faso, a prospective study was undertaken of the prevalence of dental caries and malocclusions in pupils at the Bilbalogho A public primary school in the town of Ouagadougou in Burkina Faso. Materials and Methods: The studied population comprised all of the pupils enrolled at the Bilbalogho A public primary school who were physically present at the school at time of the survey. The recorded variables were age, gender, the presence of tartar or bacterial plaque, the presence of a malocclusion, the extent of the tooth decay, the topography of the carious lesions, as well as the indicated therapeutics. Results: A total of 313 pupils were examined. The prevalence of caries was 60.1%. The level of oral and dental hygiene was poor and buildup of tartar was found in 82.7% of the pupils. Angle class I malocclusions were the most common (66.8%). There was a clear need for orthodontic care in 8%. Conclusion: The prevalence of dental caries and malocclusions at this school in the capital was quite high. Recourse to treatment was quite low for this population. For many of the pupils the reported lesions were quite advanced, thus underscoring the need for greater awareness of oral and dental care as well as systematic routine dental consultations.