Dental Caries experience of private kindergarten schoolchildren

Introduction: The aim of the present study was to determine the caries free proportions, and caries experience in private kindergarten schoolchildren. Materials and Methods: A cross sectional survey of the 5- and 6-year-old kindergarten schoolchildren (n = 66) was conducted in two private kindergartens in Kedah state. Two trained and calibrated dentists examined the children. Dental caries was scored using WHO diagnostic criteria. Each child was examined while seated on a portable chair. Torch light and mouth mirror were used for the examination. The probe was used sparingly on doubtful surfaces. In case of any doubt the tooth was marked sound. No radiographs were taken. Results: The percentage of 5 and 6-year-old children who were caries free (dft = 0) was 60% and 59% respectively. The corresponding mean dft for 5- and 6-year-olds were 1.56 and 1.92. The decayed score was the major component in the mean scores. 10.06% of the children had severe caries affecting more than 5 teeth. Conclusion: The present study provided important information regarding the change in magnitude and severity of dental caries prevalence in preschool children. Though it was relatively a small population, percentage of caries free preschool children were better compared to NOHPS 2005 (23.8%). Dental health topics ought to be included in the schools curriculum in kindergarten along with training of schoolteachers to provide basic dental health education. The preschool teachers can play an important role in building up positive oral health habits in children. Keywords: private kindergarten, caries