Correlation of DMFT Index with Caries in First Permanent Molars
Author Information
Author(s): Muacevic Alexander, Adler John R, Jimenez-Gayosso Sandra I, Robles-Bermeo Norma L, Scougall-Vilchis Rogelio J, Mora-Acosta Mariana, Casanova-Sarmiento Juan A, Islas-Granillo Horacio, Guadarrama-Reyes Saraí C, Argüello-Sánchez Raúl, Medina-Solís Carlo E, Sosa-Velasco Taurino Amílcar
Primary Institution: Autonomous University of the State of Mexico
Hypothesis
There is a significant positive correlation between the overall DMFT index and the DMFT of the first permanent molars in children.
Conclusion
There is a very strong correlation between the overall DMFT index and the DMFT calculated exclusively for the first permanent molars in this sample of Mexican children.
Supporting Evidence
- The mean overall DMFT index was 1.90±2.01.
- The correlation between caries indices was very strong (Spearman r=0.9803; p<0.0001).
- The overall caries prevalence was 58.9% for DMFT>0.
- The DMFT index for the first permanent molars was 1.71±1.74.
- The study included a total of 107 individuals.
Takeaway
This study found that the health of children's first molars is closely linked to their overall dental health, meaning if the first molars have cavities, it's likely that other teeth do too.
Methodology
A cross-sectional study was conducted on 107 children aged 5 to 12 years, using medical records to calculate the DMFT index for the entire dentition and for the first permanent molars.
Potential Biases
Data collection from medical records may introduce inconsistencies and inaccuracies.
Limitations
The cross-sectional design limits the evaluation of the indices, and the sample may not be representative of all Mexican children.
Participant Demographics
Children aged 5 to 12 years, with 50.5% being boys.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=0.0009
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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