Trends in Dental Caries Among Sardinian Children
Author Information
Author(s): Campus Guglielmo, Sacco Gianluca, Cagetti Maria Grazia, Abati Silvio
Primary Institution: Dental Institute, University of Sassari
Hypothesis
The study aims to evaluate the trend of dental caries prevalence in 12-year-old children living in Sassari, Italy, from 1989 to 2004.
Conclusion
Caries experience has significantly reduced among 12-year-old children in Sassari, indicating improved dental health.
Supporting Evidence
- The mean DMFT index decreased from 4.3 in 1989 to 0.8 in 2004.
- The percentage of caries-free children increased from 10% to 64%.
- The SiC Index decreased from 7.8 in 1989 to 3.9 in 2004.
Takeaway
Over the years, fewer kids in Sassari have had cavities, which means their teeth are healthier now than before.
Methodology
Five cross-sectional studies were conducted in 1989, 1992, 1995, 1998, and 2004, measuring dental caries using the DMFT and SiC Index.
Potential Biases
No significant selection or sampling bias was introduced as all subjects lived in the same urban area.
Limitations
The study's sampling technique varied across surveys, which may affect the representativeness of the results.
Participant Demographics
The study included 1802 children, with 49.1% boys and 50.9% girls, all aged 12 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p < 0.001
Statistical Significance
p < 0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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