Süt Ve Daimi Birinci Büyük Azıların Tedavi Gereksiniminin Cast İndeksiyle Değerlendirilmesi

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and severity levels of dental caries in primary and first permanent molars among 7-8-year-old children using the Caries Assessment Spectrum and Treatment (CAST) index and to assess their relationship with DMFT/dmft scores. A total of 101 children (50.5% girls, 49.5% boys) participated in the study. Dental caries assessment was performed using the CAST index, and individual DMFT and dmft scores were calculated. Additionally, a questionnaire was administered to parents to collect information on sociodemographic characteristics, dietary habits, and oral hygiene practices, and Plaque Index and Gingival Index evaluations were performed for all participants. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, Chi-Square Test, Mann-Whitney U Test, and Spearman Correlation Analysis (p<0.05). The mean CAST score of the children was found to be 6.15±1.91, indicating a high risk for poor oral health within the study population. No statistically significant difference was observed in CAST scores between genders (p>0.05). Similarly, no significant difference was found in maximum CAST scores with increasing age (p>0.05). However, a statistically significant positive correlation was detected between CAST scores and individual dmft/DMFT scores (p<0.001). In conclusion, the findings demonstrate that the CAST index is an effective tool for the detailed evaluation of caries progression in primary and permanent molars. The study emphasizes the importance of early detection and the necessity of implementing preventive oral health strategies among 7-8-year-old children.