Prevalence of Dental Caries among Schoolchildren in Bauchi LGA, Bauchi State, Northeast Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Dental caries (DC) among children is a major public health concern with attendant consequences, including pain, poor growth, and poor school performance. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of dental caries among school children in Bauchi LGA. Methodology: A school‑based cross‑sectional study was conducted from July to November 2023. A total of 600 school children were recruited. The sample size was determined using a statistical formula for cross‑sectional studies, and a multi‑stage sampling technique was employed to select participants. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Bauchi State Ministry of Health. Clinical examinations were carried out to identify the presence of decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21.0. Results: The prevalence of DC was 275 (45.8%), and the mean DMFT score for the study population was 1.7 ± 1.6. DC was found to be more common among females (p = 0.002). The age-specific prevalence of DC was 65.0% for 7–8 years, 59.8% for 9–11 years, 30.1% for 11–12 years, and 31.5% for 13–14 years. Conclusion: The high prevalence of DC among school children in Bauchi LGA highlights the need for collaboration among stakeholders in the education and health sectors to raise awareness and implement policies aimed at improving dental hygiene in schools and communities.