Dental problems of a rural community in Sierra Leone.

As part of an undergraduate elective project, 56 villagers of all ages residing in a remote region of Sierra Leone were examined for caries and periodontal status. The results show moderate disease levels which increase with age. There is little evidence of provision of dental services. Although there is no sucrose available in the village, the diet includes a high fruit component which may cause dental caries. Physical and political access to the village may constrain proposed preventive oral health programmes.