Comparative evaluation of the predictive value of cariogram and informal caries risk assessment among school-going children in the age group of 8–9 years of Yamuna Nagar District, Haryana

Abstract

Aim: This longitudinal, observational study was conducted in the schools of Yamunanagar, Haryana, to evaluate and compare the predictive value of formal type of caries risk assessment using reduced Cariogram software, including only seven factors and informal type among 8–9 years' school-going children. Materials and Methods: A total of 111 school-going children were included in the study. Risk profile for each child was created using cariogram as well as informal factors. The same children were scheduled for re-examination at an interval of 9 and 18 months. The caries status was recorded again using the Collapsed International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS) concept. Statistical Analysis: The precoded data were transferred to the computer and analyzed using the SPSS software (version 17.0). Data were analyzed for the identification of children with lesion progression and numbers of lesions progressing using the Transition Scoring System. Results: Cariogram being a multifactorial model gives significant individual weightage to each etiological factor causing dental caries as compared to informal caries risk assessment which though easy to implement yet unstructured unlike cariogram and thus does not guarantee consistent implementation. Conclusion: Cariogram is a perfect option for patient motivation and supports the clinician in decision making for planning preventive strategies for the patients. Along with this, a combination of the factors for informal caries risk assessment can help in making a simple yet multifactorial model which can be applied in daily practice.

Keywords

• caries risk assessment
• cariogram software
• informal caries risk assessment