Abstract

Background: Oral dental care must begin from childhood. Dental caries are the most common chronic childhood disorders and DMFT (Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth) is the most important oral health index. The purpose of this study is to evaluate DMFT index in 12-year old children in Saveh city, Iran. 

Methods: In this cross- sectional descriptive study 282 students of 12-year in elementary schools were chosen using multi stage sampling method. The questionnaire included demographic information and dental examinations based on criteria in accordance with indicators of DMFT World Organization. Gathered data were analyzed using spss v. 14, t test and chi-square test were used.

Results: The mean DMFT value was 2.1+ 4/3 (2/3 boys, 1/ 95 girls) which was low in comparison with the World Health Organization index. There were not any significant differences in DMFT and their components in relation to gender. 61.7% (No=174) used toothbrush once a day.  There was a meaningful relationship between regular use of brush and oral health indicators (P= 0.002).

Conclusions: Considering the objectives of the World Health Organization by 2015 with the DMFT<1, improving the existing dental services and prevention program for students seems necessary. Health education with emphasis on the regular use of toothbrush can have a positive impact on oral health indicators in the society.

Key words: 12 year-old Students, Decayed Tooth, filled tooth, pulled tooth, oral health status.