Changes in Caries Prevalence among Adolescents in Budapest, Hungary, from 1975 to 1982

Abstract
In 1975 and in 1982 more than 1500 Budapest high school pupils aged 14-17 ys were examined. The percentage of caries-free pupils increased from 1.5% in 1975 to 4.8% in 1982 (in girls from 1.4 to 5.1% and in boys from 1.8 to 4.2%). The overall reduction in caries prevalence was 15.1% (18.8% in girls and 12.8% in boys). Oral hygiene and periodontal indices showed no improvement. Higher sales of fluoridated toothpaste and lower sugar consumption are possible contributing factors.