Prevalence of dental caries and treatment needs among children of Cuttack (Orissa).

An epidemiological investigation was carried out to know the prevalence of Dental Caries amongst 1257 children in the age group of 5, 8, 11 & 15 years respectively attending schools in the city of Cuttack, Orissa. The examination was carried out under natural light and dental caries was diagnosed according to W.H.O. Criteria 1983. The point prevalence of dental caries was recorded to be 64.3% with an average DMFT of 2.38. The prevalence of caries showed a pattern of occurrence i.e. prevalence consistantly increased from 5 years to 8 years age group and subsequently decreased at 11 years and 15 years age. Regarding treatment needs, 63.6% children required dental treatment for various reason and it is in accordance with dental caries prevalence of different age group.