Prevalence of dental caries in 3-6-year-old children in Prishtina, Kosovo.

AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate the dental caries status in deciduous dentition and associated risk factors in kindergarten children in Prishtina, the capital of Kosovo.

MATERIALS: A cross-sectional study was performed among 655 kindergarten children aged 3-6 years from Prishtina. Dental health status was assessed using the World Health Organization (WHO) caries diagnostic criteria for decayed, extracted and filled surfaces of the teeth (defs index) in the deciduous dentition. At the same time, a questionnaire was completed with the children's parents/guardians to identify potential risk factors associated with deciduous dental caries. Statistical analysis was performed using frequencies, means, and chi-square test.

CONCLUSION

The deciduous dental caries status of kindergarten children in Prishtina remains serious problem. Regular dental check-ups, accompanied by oral health education through regular tooth brushing, and dental visits are recommended for all kindergarten children and the children's parents/guardians.