Prevalence Of Dental Caries In Patients Attending The Dental Clinic Of The Tema General Hospital

ABSTRACT Introduction: Dental caries is one of the most important global health problems characterized by breakdown of normal tooth tissue by bacteria in the presence of food substrate (sugar-containing food) and over a period of time. It is highly prevalent as it affects about 60% - 90% of school-aged children and a large number of adults (WHO, 2012). It has a negative impact on the quality of life and economic productivity of a nation. Epidemiological studies have confirmed some relationship between economic, demographic and behavioral factors. However, there is very little evidence of the relationship between dental caries and these social factors especially in Ghana. Significant economic productivity lost yearly due to absenteeism in school and work as a result of untreated dental caries remains a challenge. Therefore the aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and social factors that affect or have influence on dental caries Objective: To determine the prevalence and social factors related to dental caries among patients aged 3 years and above attending the dental unit of Tema General Hospital, Tema Methods: Cross-sectional design was used in this study. Purposive sampling and a sample size of 160 was used for this study. Data was collected from 160 patients attending the dental unit of the Tema General Hospital, Tema, to determine the social factors and distribution of dental caries amongst these patients. Results: The prevalence of dental caries among patients attending the dental unit of Tema General Hospital was found to be 81.3% and 92.3% of these patients had complete destruction of the tooth. The mean age of patients with dental caries was 31 ± 16.9 years. Strong association was observed between socio-demographic and behavioral factors.  Conclusion: The prevalence of dental caries in this study is high. Therefore, there should be reinforcement of public oral health education with emphasis on regular dental checkup. This will help in early diagnosis and treatment.