A survey on DMFT index of the first permanent molar in 12-year-old students of Larestan, Iran, in 2014

Background: One of the most important epidemiologic indices for the assessment and measurement of dental caries is the Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT) index which is used as an important criterion for the evaluation of the oral and dental health status of individuals. Therefore, the present study was conducted to determine DMFT6 (DMFT of the first permanent molar) index and the related factors with the caries free status in students of 12 years of age in Larestan, Iran, in 2014. Materials and Methods: The present cross-sectional survey was conducted on 2436 students. Data were collected using the National Oral Health Promotion Plan Checklist. If the features of decayed, missing, and filled were observed in any of the first permanent molars, they received a score of 1. Data were analyzed using chi-square test, chi-squared test for trend, independent two-sample t-test, and multiple logistic regression model. Results: The mean and standard deviation of DMFT6 in all students was 1.00 &plusmn; 1.36. It was 1.07 &plusmn; 1.39 and 0.93 &plusmn; 1.33 in girls and boys, respectively, and this difference was statistically significant (P = 0.0080). In addition, more than half of the students (51.5%) were caries free. The variables of gender (P = 0.0007), mothers&rsquo; education (P < 0.0001), and fathers&rsquo; occupation (P = 0.0045) were determined as the related factors of the caries free variable in the logistic regression model. Conclusions: It seems that the amount of the DMFT6 index in students of 12 years of age in Larestan was high compared to the World Health Organization (WHO) standards in 2010. Therefore, it is recommended that efficient plans be made to promote the oral and &lrm;dental health of students.