Prevalence of dental caries in 3-6-year-old children in Prishtina, Kosovo
Authors
V Rrustemaj
School of Dental Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia - UBT-College, Dental Faculty, Prishtina
B Bahtiri Rrustemaj
Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, University Dentistry Clinical Center of Kosovo, Prishtina
M Lapter Varga
School of Dental Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia, Department of Orthodontics
L Ferizi Shabani
Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, University Dentistry Clinical Center of Kosovo, Prishtina, Republic of Kosovo - Department of Dentistry, Alma Mater Europaea Campus College Rezonanca, Prishtina
S Anic Milosevic
School of Dental Medicine, University of Zagreb, Croatia, Department of Orthodontics
Oral health, defs index, 3-6 years old, kindergarten children, parents/guardians
Abstract
AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate the dental caries status in deciduous dentition and associated risk factors in kindergarten children in Prishtina, the capital of Kosovo.
MATERIALS: A cross-sectional study was performed among 655 kindergarten children aged 3-6 years from Prishtina. Dental health status was assessed using the World Health Organization (WHO) caries diagnostic criteria for decayed, extracted and filled surfaces of the teeth (defs index) in the deciduous dentition. At the same time, a questionnaire was completed with the children's parents/guardians to identify potential risk factors associated with deciduous dental caries. Statistical analysis was performed using frequencies, means, and chi-square test.
CONCLUSION: The deciduous dental caries status of kindergarten children in Prishtina remains serious problem. Regular dental check-ups, accompanied by oral health education through regular tooth brushing, and dental visits are recommended for all kindergarten children and the children's parents/guardians.
