Correlation between Prevalence and Severity of Dental Caries and Dental Fluorosis in Davangere Urban School children

Aim: Humanity has been plagued by the presence of caries, the unique disease ever since prehistoric times. Fluoride can be considered as “double edged sword” in oral health, optimal levels of which can be cariostatic but at levels above optimum can be detrimental. The knowledge of the prevalence of dental caries and fluorosis will help in the formulation of better preventive protocols. The present study aimed to find out the correlation between prevalence and severity of dental caries and prevalence of dental fluorosis. Methods and Material: A survey proforma was prepared with the help of World Health organization (WHO) oral health assessment form on 1511 school going children of Davangere in the age of 5-6 years. The examination for dental caries was made according to Decayed Missing Filled (DMF) Index. The examination for dental fluorosis was made according to Deans Fluorosis Index. Statistical analysis used: WHO oral health assessment form was used to prepare the survey proforma and the DMF index was used to measure dental caries. Deans Fluorosis Index was used to measure dental fluorosis. The results thus obtained were statistically analyzed. Results: Significant difference (P<0.5) in caries prevalence was observed between the fluorosis affected children and the children who were not affected with fluorosis. Statistically significant difference (P<0.01) in caries prevalence was observed between the fluorosis free group and fluorosis affected group. Low caries prevalence was observed in children who had questionable fluorosis. Conclusions: A highly significant correlation was observed between caries prevalence and age with females showing higher prevalence. Educated mother’s children were less susceptible to dental caries.