Prevalence of dental caries among school children in Bauchi LGA

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Introduction

Dental caries (DC) among children is a major public health concern with attendant consequences including pain, poor growth and school performance. The 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 600 school children were recruited. Sample size was calculated using statistical formula for cross sectional study and a multi-stage sampling technique was used to select study participants. Ethical clearance was obtained from Bauchi State Ministry of health and introductory to schools was obtained from BASUBEB. After consent and assent, pretested and structured questionnaires were administered to children and their Parents. Clinical examination was carried out to identify the presence of decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT). Data was analysed using SPSS (version 21.0).

Results 

The prevalence of DC was 275(45.8%), while the mean DMFT score for the study was (1.7±1.6). DC was found to be commoner in females (AOR= 10.707, 95%CI = 2.452- 46.745, p-value = 0.002.) The age-based prevalence of dental caries varies with 65% 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 was high. This shows there is a need for the collaboration of all stakeholders in the education and health sectors to raise awareness and implement policies to improve dental hygiene in schools and the community to prevent DC in Bauchi LGA