Caries risk profiles in 2- to 6-year-old Greek children using the Cariogram.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the caries risk profiles in 2- to 6-year-old Greek children using a computer-based program and to evaluate the contribution of various risk factors.


METHODS
The study group consisted of 814 preschool children. A questionnaire on family, demographic and socioeconomic factors, general health, oral hygiene and dietary behavior was completed by the parents. Children were examined for cavitated and white-spot lesions (WSL). Salivary mutans streptococci (MS) and buffer capacity were estimated. Caries risk profiles were assessed with Cariogram.


RESULTS
Cavitated lesions were found in 30% of the children; WSL were found in 26% of those included. MS and low buffer capacity were detected in 28% and 26% of the children, respectively. The majority (70%) displayed neglected oral hygiene. Based on the questionnaires, 83% of the children had a cariogenic diet, and 17% did not use any form of fluoride. The Cariogram revealed that 26% of the children had high caries risk, while only 9% exhibited low caries risk. The most significant caries risk variables, determined by regression analysis (R(2)=0.88), were insufficient fluoride exposure (ß=0.160) and the presence of WSL (ß= 0.159).


CONCLUSIONS
One-fourth of the children were categorised as high caries risk. The presence of WSL and lack of fluoride exposure were the most significant caries risk determinants.
Department of Paediatric Dentistry, Dental School, University of Athens, GREECE.
Katerina
K
Kavvadia
Andreas
A
Agouropoulos
Sotiria
S
Gizani
Lisa
L
Papagiannouli
Svante
S
Twetman