Caries risk profiles in Sardinian schoolchildren using Cariogram.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of our study was to assess the caries risk profile in a group of Sardinian schoolchildren and to compare the outcome with their history of caries.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Using the computer-based program "Cariogram", 957 subjects aged 7, 8, and 9 years were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. The children were examined to evaluate dmfs/DMFS and gingival conditions. Data on dietary and oral hygiene habits were collected and saliva was analyzed, including levels of mutans streptococci (MS) and lactobacilli (Lb). Based on the Cariogram profiles, the children were divided into five risk groups in accordance with "chance of avoiding caries".

RESULTS

Almost 50% of the children had a low caries risk, while more than a quarter had less than 40% "chance of avoiding caries". A significant linear trend between the five Cariogram categories and dmfs/DMFS was observed in the three age groups (p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The Cariogram risk profile showed strong correlations to the caries experience of Sardinian schoolchildren and that efforts to reduce caries risk are necessary.