Abstract
The first permanent molar is exposed to the oral environment for a longer period of time than any other permanent tooth. Also, first permanent molars have deep pits and fissures which are more susceptible to food lodgment. This in turn leads to increased susceptibility to dental caries and subsequent tooth loss.
Aim: The aim of the study is to evaluate the prevalence of missing mandibular first molar due to caries in the age group of 15-17 year old students in Calicut district.
Materials and Methods: A crossectional study was conducted in 16 schools in the urban and rural strata in the four taluks of Calicut district, Kerala. Clinical examination was done by five dentists and the findings were entered in survey sheets. Questions regarding their habits, age, and gender were also noted.
Results: The prevalence of missing molars in Calicut district in age group 15-17 years was 3.78%. Higher prevalence rate of missing mandibular molars in rural areas (4.13%) was noted compared to the urban areas (3.44%) in Calicut district. The prevalence of missing mandibular molars was more in subjects who did not use mouth wash and the results were statistically significant (p value less than 0.05).
Keywords: Mandibular molars, Dental caries, Malocclusion, Oral hygiene, Occlusion.
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Corresponding Author
Dr Elizabeth Prabha James
Associate Professor, Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, Govt. Dental College, Kozhikode
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v8i5.81
