Analysis of Caries Morbidity in Children of Lviv Region

Introduction. The problem of dental caries is one of the most urgent because of its significant prevalence and intensity in many countries all around the world. At the same time, the information statistics of the WHO shows a decrease in the rate of dental caries in most developed countries, as well as the stabilization of the incidence or the slowdown of its growth in some developing countries. Studying the frequency of dental diseases with the analysis of their causes is the basis of primary prevention. An epidemiologic examination of children is considered essential in assessing the dental morbidity and conducting the optimal preventive measures, taking into account information about their residence in specific natural and social conditions. The analysis of literature is showing a significant variability in the spread of dental caries not only in different regions of Ukraine, but also among the children living within the same city. Aim. To estimate the prevalence and intensity of caries of teeth in children of Lviv and Lviv region and to find out their dependence on the age of the surveyed. Materials and methods. 2387 children were surveyed in 20 towns of Lviv region and 454 children in Lviv. The survey was conducted in key groups of 7, 12, 15 years in accordance with WHO guidelines for epidemiological studies. The defeat of teeth by caries was estimated by the following indices: prevalence of caries of teeth (%), caries intensity by index CSR (C – caries, S – sealed, R – removed tooth). Results. It was determined that the average prevalence of caries is 81.44 % with 3.68 harmed teeth. The affection of teeth by caries is growing with age. The prevalence of caries in 7-years- old children is a 63.56 %, with the intensity of 1.20 harmed teeth. In 12- years-old children, accordingly – 91.60 % and 3.84 teeth and in 15-years-old children – 90.66 % and 6.09 teeth per one child. The considerable differences in the indexes of teeth affection by caries were established depending on the territory of residence of the children, as well as the age – a considerable increase of the intensity of teeth caries was observed in 12- to 15- years-old children. The analysis of the results of the examination of children made it possible to reveal a different level of prevalence and intensity of dental caries, as well as an insufficient level of providing the metamorphosed dental care. This testifies to the need for further examination of children in other populated areas, the study of the nature and impact of the ecological, natural, geochemical and other factors of the environment in which the children live, not only on the development and formation of solid dental tissues, but also on the state of their dental health. Conclusions. The prevalence and intensity of caries of teeth in children of the Lviv region according to the criteria of the wound are high. It is necessary to develop the preventive measures for the preservation of the health of children, as well as efficiently organize dental care for children.