Marginalization and Its Association with Dental Caries among 5-12 Years Old Slum Children in Central India

Objective: The aim of the study was to assess dental caries and associated risk factors among 5-12 year old slum dwelling children in Bhopal City, Central India. Methods: A total of 311 children were there in the 5-12 year old age group and all were examined. Information on demographic characteristics of participants along with parent's literacy status, annual family income, oral health behaviors and visits to health personnel for dental needs were collected. Data was collected on dental caries of primary dentition (dmft) and permanent dentition (DMFT) using modified WHO criteria (1997). Linear and logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the factors associated with dmft/DMFT status. Odds ratio was calculated for all variables with 95% confidence intervals. Results: Ninety three (26.7%) and sixty (19.3%) children were having one or more decayed teeth (dt/DT) in primary and permanent dentition respectively. Mean dmft/DMFT scores were 0.69 ± 1.42 and 0.35 ± 0.90 in the primary and permanent dentition respectively. Variables in the dmft/DMFT model explained only 18.3% and 8% of the variance in the primary and permanent dentition. Conclusion: The study reveals exceptionally low dental care utilization and dental caries levels among slum dwelling children. Addressing marginalization will require a responsive and a caring workforce on the part of health authorities and government.