Correlation between caries risk factors and caries development in a group of preschool children

ABSTRACT

Dental caries is a multifactorial disease, thus the clinical outcome varies depending on which factor, or combination of factors, is promoinent in a particular individual. Thus it is wise to target preventive programmes to those group who are classified as high caries risk subjects to minimize cost and man power. In this study we tried to highlight on the most accurate factor [s] which can be used as indicators for future caries. Among 43 children, only 34 children of both sexes completed the study, with main age 56 +/- 5.4 months. For each child complete dental examination including dmfs and oral hygiene index were taken. Diet history analysis was also taken. Salivary Streptococcus Mutans, lactobacilli as well as rate, buffering and viscosity of saliva were also meassured. This was followed by complete dental treatment [if needed] and a preventive dental programme. After one year follow up, it was found that the most effective caries risk indicators were Streptococcus Mutans, number of food snakes per day, past and present caries experience and the younger the child with caries, the higher the risk for development of caries