Keywords
Nepal
Oral Hygiene
Prevalence
School Children
How to Cite
Abstract
Introduction: Dental caries is a major public health concern for children's health and well-being in Nepal.
Objectives: To investigate the prevalence of dental caries and its links to oral hygiene and socioeconomic status among
schoolchildren.
Methodology: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2024 to February 2025 among 352
school children aged 6-12 years in Phidim, Panchthar district. Data were collected by the trained dentist using a structured
questionnaire and clinical examinations to determine the Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT/df) index. Ethical
approval was obtained from the Institutional Review Committee of Kathmandu University School of Medical Science (IRC
No. 252/23). Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, Pearson's correlation, and logistic regression.
Results: The prevalence of caries was high, particularly in the 6-9 year age group 209 (59.3%) in primary dentition. A
significant knowledge-practice gap was identified: while most children 336 (95.5%) knew sugary food was harmful, 348
(98.9%) were unaware of the correct brushing technique. Consequently, 280 (79.5%) required prompt or immediate
dental treatment. Socioeconomic status (SES) showed significant negative correlation with the DMF index (ρ = –0.135,
p = 0.011). For each one-year increase in age, the adjusted odds of having caries in permanent molars increased by 23%
(aOR = 1.23, p < 0.001).
Conclusion: The study highlights a critical burden of untreated dental caries in this paediatric population, driven primarily
by inadequate oral hygiene knowledge rather than a lack of brushing attempts. The findings underscore an urgent need
for targeted, school-based public health programs.
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