Carious damage of the first permanent molar in the age group 6-9 years-old

Abstract

Objectives. To assess the caries status of the first permanent molars (FPMs) in a group of 6-9 years-old schoolchildren from general population. Material and method. Cross-sectional clinical study performed on a group of 268 schoolchildren (139 boys) (mean age = 7.78±1.27 years). Clinical oral examination was performed in the classroom, in daylight, according to WHO recommendations (1997). The FPM dental status was recorded: sound, decay, treated. FPM prevalence caries index (Ip FPM ), mean values of carious experience indices (DMF-T FPM , DMF-S FPM , SiC FPM ) and their components were calculated and the values were assessed according to age and sex. Caries distribution according to topography, depth and treatment methods was assessed. Statistical analysis was performed with ANOVA and t-test (p < 0.05). Results. Ip FPM = 46.26%; Ip FPM boys = 50.35%, Ip FPM girls = 41.86% (p < 0.05). Ip FPM = 29.16% – at 6 years, 33.82% – at 7 years, 50% – at 8 years, 61.7% – at 9 years. DMF-T FPM = 0.93; DMF-SFPM = 1.1; SiC FPM = 2.43. FPM dental status: 69.4% – caries-free, 4.58% – non-cavitated caries, 20.51% – uncomplicated cavitated caries, 0.09% – complicated caries and 5.37% – filled. The most frequent lesions were uncomplicated occlusal caries – 88.88%. Conclusions. Approximately half of the examined children had at least one FPM decayed on at least one surface. Regular dental check-ups are required shortly after the FPM eruption, which would allow the application of preventive methods or the detections of lesions at an early stage and the use of minimally invasive treatment methods.