An epidemiological study of dental caries prevalence in mixed dentition among school children and its association with different variables in Shimla city

This study was done to know about the prevalence of dental caries in mixed dentition among school children and its association with different variables in Shimla. 1200 children (594 boys and 606 girls) of 11 government schools in Shimla aged 6–12 years were examined using the WHO (1997) index, to record the prevalence of dental caries. The results were subjected to statistical analysis using the chi square test. Dental caries in primary dentition was found among 79.63% and 77.63% of male and female students respectively. 34.01% of male students and 48.02% of female students were affected with dental caries in permanent dentition. Association was found between means of cleansing, frequency of brushing, dentifrice used, diet taken, sweet snacking in betweenmeals and prevalence of dental caries. High prevalence of dental caries among school children in Shimla isacause of concern which point out to the utmost necessity of dental health education, regular periodic check-up and application of preventive measures and treatment modalities.