[Comparative study of two classification criteria used in the Family Health Program to prioritize treatment of dental caries in 5-to-12 year-old children].

The objective of this study was to evaluate two classification criteria used to prioritize treatment of dental caries under the Brazilian Family Health Program. The study was held in Ipiguá, São Paulo State, and included 538 five-to-twelve-year-old children. The children underwent an oral examination and assessment of two classification criteria in order to prioritize restorative dental treatment. Based on caries activity, 236 children (75.4%) were prioritized for dental care, while the criterion based on amount and size of the cavity included 73 children (23.4%). Using the two criteria, 186 children (59.4%) were not classified with the same priority for restorative treatment. Determining the precedence for restorative dental treatment must be based on the caries activity, number of cavities, need for treatment, and type of dentition involved (deciduous or permanent). Subjective measures can also be used as a supplement for more rational planning.