Dental caries status of Cambodian children and the effects of living environment factors

Purpose The present survey examined the need for dental treatment for caries among Cambodian children as well as the living environments of such children. Then, based on the results we assessed whether education programs aimed at caries prevention are required in Cambodia. Methods Between 2010 and 2012, 1893 children (age: 3, 5, or 12 years), who were living in Siem Reap Province or Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, were subjected to oral examinations and a survey. Then, the relationship between the prevalence of caries among the children and living environment factors was examined based on the survey data. Results There was no significant difference in the prevalence of caries between Siem Reap Province and Phnom Penh. The mean prevalence rate of caries and the children's mean df tooth index (dft) and decay-missing-filled tooth (DMFT) scores were higher than those seen in Japan in all age groups. The proportion of treated teeth was low in all age groups, which suggested that a number of children had not consulted dentists. Many of the children regularly ate snacks containing sugar, which are closely associated with caries. Conclusion Providing dental health education for parents and appropriate brushing advice for children would probably reduce the incidence of caries among Cambodian children. It is necessary to establish systems for preventing dental disorders in Cambodia as promptly as possible.