Prevalence of dental decay in Jewish and Arab schoolchildren in the Jerusalem area

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Abstract
Up-to-date information was gathered on the prevalence of dental decay in schoolchildren in the Jerusalem area [Israel]. Close to 650 Arab and Jewish schoolchildren aged 6-8 yr underwent oral examinations. The relationship between caries prevalence and treatment supplied with some secondary factors was studied. Of the children 92% were affected by decay. Compared to former years there is an increase in the prevalence of dental caries throughout the population. No significant differences were found when sex, ethnic population or socioeconomic factors were related to caries prevalence. When DMF [decayed, missing and filled teeth] is broken down into its component. Arab children had a greater number of teeth affected by caries and in need of treatment (D). Treatment need is met to a much greater degree among Jewish children than among Arab children.