Dental health and treatment needs among children in a tribal community.

Authors :: Viragi PS
Dwijendra KS
Kathariya MD
Chopra K
Dadpe MV
Madhukar HS
Source :: The journal of contemporary dental practice [J Contemp Dent Pract] 2013 Jul 01; Vol. 14 (4), pp. 747-50. Date of Electronic Publication: 2013 Jul 01.
Publication Year :: 2013
Abstract: Objective: To assess the dental health status and treatment needs among children of 'Pardhi' tribal community.<br />Methods: A total of 185 children were examined over a period of 2 months using WHO proforma. The statistical software namely SPSS version 15.0 and data was analyzed using Student's t-test and ANOVA test at p < 0.05.<br />Results: The mean score for dft and DMFT was 1.87 ± 1.073 and 2.04 ± 1.564 respectively with males subjects were having comparatively more scores. It was also found significant differences between age groups. Most of the children needed one surface filling, i.e. 29.40%, followed by pulp care and restoration (19.30%), two or more surface fillings (15.60%) and extraction (11.70%).<br />Clinical Significance: The study subjects were characterized by a lack of dental care services, high prevalence of dental caries and treatment needs. Therefore, implementation of a basic oral health care program for this tribal population is a high priority.