Prevalence of Dental Caries Based on International Caries Detection and Assessment System-II Criteria among 7–15-year-old Rural Adivasi Schoolchildren in Dhule, Maharashtra: A Descriptive, Analytical, Cross-sectional Study
Swapnali Patil, Arun S. Dodamani, Sumit Nagraj Ede, Snehal Sakharam Patil, Vardhaman Mulchand Jain, G. N. Karibasappa, Snehal Vilas ThamkeAbstract
Introduction:
Dental caries is a prevalent dental condition that occurs during childhood and remains a significant public health issue. Its prevalence correlates with oral hygiene practices, sugar consumption, and the implementation of preventive oral health programs.
Aim:
This study aimed to assess the prevalence of dental caries among schoolchildren aged 7–15 years using the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS)-II.
Materials and Methods:
The study population was selected using a convenient sampling technique and included 156 Adivasi schoolchildren from a government school in Nimkhedi, Dhule district, Maharashtra, India. Two calibrated examiners examined each student, and an oral examination was done using ICDAS-II criteria under natural light during normal school hours. Oral hygiene status was assessed using the Oral Hygiene Index-Simplified and Patient Hygiene Performance index. The data were analyzed using the Mann–Whitney
Results:
The distribution of caries-free children was 26.3%, noncavitated enamel caries (codes: 1–2) was observed in 70.5%, and 3.2% had cavitated caries (codes: 3–6). There was no significant difference in caries experience between the two genders.
Conclusion:
The findings of this study suggest a significant prevalence of dental caries among Adivasi schoolchildren aged 7–15 years living in Nimkhedi. This underscores the importance of implementing comprehensive oral health promotion strategies tailored to this specific age group.