Caries Risk, Caries Experience, and Treatment Needs of Children in Goa, India at their First Dental Visit

Abstract

Introduction: A child's first dental visit (FDV) is a crucial milestone in the overall health and development. Early dental visits play a vital role in preventing and managing caries.

Objectives: The aim of the study was to assess the caries risk, caries experience, and treatment needs of children during their first dental visit in Goa state, India.

Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted in the department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry. Children who reported for the first dental visit were included. Caries risk was assessed using the AAPD-2022 caries risk assessment forms. DMFT/dmft index was recorded. Treatment needs were recorded on the WHO-1997 form.  Statistical analysis was performed using the STATA (version 17; StataCorp LLC, College Station, TX) software.

Results: A total of 544 children participated in the study. Most children (39.70%) had a high risk of developing dental caries. The mean DMFT/dmft score was 6.78 ± 4.09. Most children required preventive (topical fluoride, diet counselling, oral hygiene instructions) and corrective (restorations, pulp therapy, crowns) dental treatment.

Conclusions: A delay in the age of the children’s FDV was found to have a negative influence on their oral health status. Educational initiatives are necessary in Goa to raise parental awareness about the importance of early first dental visits for maintaining optimal oral health in children.