Prevalence and Demographic Insights in Public Dental Clinics in Jazan, Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND In Saudi Arabia, particularly the Jazan region, a high prevalence of caries is reported among children, while adult data remain limited. This study aimed to assess the sex, age, and prevalence distribution of dental caries among adults in the Jazan region, Saudi Arabia. MATERIAL AND METHODS A cross-sectional study assessed dental caries among walk-in patients from 4 dental centers in Jazan region, using the WHO Oral Health Assessment Form (2013). Seven trained dentists conducted examinations, ensuring interrater reliability (Cronbach alpha=0.7). Sociodemographic data and Decayed, Missing, and Filled Permanent Teeth (DMFT) scores were collected and analyzed by tooth type, dental arches, and sides of arches. Data were analyzed using STATA/SE 15.1, using descriptive statistics, ANOVA, and t tests. Statistical significance was set at P≤0.05. RESULTS Of 312 participants, 94.6% were women. Caries prevalence was highest in the 26-30 year age group (24.4%), and overall was 94.6%. Maxillary arch had higher caries prevalence (91.3%) than mandibular arch (84.9%), with molars most affected. DMFT scores were lowest in the 19-25 age group (9.33±5.23) and highest in 36-40 group (13.42±4.94). Participants over 50 years showed significant tooth loss (6.09±5.51). There was a significant difference and association between the presence of caries and arch type with age groups (P=0.005, P=0.002 with ANOVA). CONCLUSIONS Widespread prevalence of dental caries in the Jazan region was found, affecting diverse demographics. Findings stress the need for preventive care, early intervention, and tailored treatments to address age-specific and sex-related differences, to improve overall oral health outcomes.