Dentists use of caries risk assessment& individualized caries prevention among paediatric patients in Bengaluru- a cross sectional study

Abstract

INTRODUCTION- The first stage of a comprehensive protocol for a child's oral health treatment is risk assessment. AIM- The purpose of the current study was to determine if dentists in Bengaluru who are currently in practice carry out Caries Risk Assessment and offer individualized caries prevention to their paediatric patients. MATERIAL & METHODS- A cross-sectional survey was carried out among Bengaluru's active dentists. The study individuals were picked using simple random sampling. Using a standardized self-administered questionnaire, the data was gathered. RESULTS- Of the 215 dentists who responded, 80% thought it was crucial to undertake a caries risk assessment on young patients. Individualized Caries Prevention was used more frequently by 67% of dentists. There was no correlation between Individualized Caries Prevention and Caries Risk Assessment Factors, which suggested that patient affordability accounted for a large portion of treatment decisions. CONCLUSION- Dentists should encourage parents and caregivers to start a dental home concept as soon as possible, which includes education, anticipatory guidance on the prevention of oral illnesses, and caries risk assessment.