Cariogram Model in Assessment of Dental Caries among Mentally Challenged and Visually Impaired Individuals of Udaipur, India.

OBJECTIVES To assess the caries risk and contribution of diet, bacteria, circumstances and susceptibility sectors among special groups in comparison to the normal group of Udaipur using the Cariogram model. MATERIALS AND METHODS A Cariogram model was used to identify risk factors among 160 subjects (40 mentally challenged, 60 visually impaired and 60 normal healthy individuals) aged 7-36 years. Statistical analysis was done using Chi-square/ Fischer's Exact followed by Marascuilo procedure and Stepwise multiple linear regression. RESULTS Compared to the normal group (74%), mentally challenged (33%) and visually impaired (41%) groups showed less chances of avoiding future caries. Group (R= 0.660) was found to be strongest predictor for caries risk. Susceptibility sector contributed 61% for caries risk in all the groups. CONCLUSION The caries risk was high among special groups compared to normal group. Susceptibility sector illustrated the highest contribution for caries risk in all groups.