Plaque score and gingival health status among 6-12 years old children in hyderabad division

ABSTRACT

The objective of this study was to evaluate the plaque score and gingival health status among 6-12 years old school children. This cross sectional study was done from 15th July to 10th August 2014 among the students of Matiari [Rural Area] and Hirabad Hyderabad [Urban Area]. Schools were selected on convenient basis. Age ranged from six to twelve years and only boys were included in the study. All clinical dental examinations were conducted in schools with mouth mirror and explorer in the day light. Plaque index and gingival index developed by Loe and Silness were used for each student to record the plaque score and gingival condition. The plaque disclosing tablet [Eviplac Pastilhas; Biodinamicas TM], was used to identify the plaque score. All the students were asked about routine oral hygiene procedures. Data were analyzed in statistical package for social sciences [SPSS] version 16. Quantitative variables are presented in percentages. Mean and standard deviations were computed for qualitative variables. Chi-square test and independent sample t-test were applied to see the significant association. Total one hundred seventy six school children were included in this study; ninety six were from rural area and eighty from urban area. The mean age was 15.85 +/- 7.773. The gingivitis was seen in 80.7% students. Gingivitis was more in the rural children than from urban areas which was statistically not significant. The mean plaque score was 39.63 +/- 19.15 in present study. The independent sample T-test analysis revealed no significant difference between rural and urban students. Gum bleeding was more common in rural school students which is statistically significant. It is concluded that there was a higher gingival inflammation in present study population. Urban students had good gingival condition and low mean plaque score than rural students. Mild type of gingivitis was more common in rural students