Prevalence of Dental Caries among adults  in Ilala District, Dar-Es-Salaam

Background: Dental caries remains the most important dental health problem in developing countries and it is associated with increased consumption of sugary products like soft drinks, snacks, also the widespread use of tobacco and alcohol consumption has been closely associated with increased risk of dental caries prevalence. Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and pattern of dental caries and the associated risk factors among adults (18 years and above) in Ilala district, Dar-es-Salaam. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved adult patients in Ilala district, Dar-es-Salaam. The administered questionnaire assessed demographic details, consumption of sugary snacks, sugary drinks, use of tobacco and alcohol. Patients were categorized as being at risk of developing dental caries (>3 positive responses) or at low risk (<3 positive responses). A clinical examination assessed decayed teeth and findings in regard to tooth number, tooth status, tooth surface and DMFT were recorded in clinical forms. Analysis was done and the level of statistical significance was determined at p-value <0.05. Results: Overall prevalence of dental caries was 87.1% with majority being females (90.5%) and of age group 45-68 years (91.1%). Maxillary teeth were more affected by dental caries than mandibular teeth however, lower molars were the most affected tooth type (49.6%) and occlusal surfaces the most affected surface (54.7%). The consumption of tea with sugar (96.6%), sugary juices (93.5%), carbonated drinks (92.2%), and sugary snacks (74.6%) was higher than consumption of alcohol (25%) and tobacco use (3%). Only a quarter of the participants (25%) were considered to be at risk of developing dental caries. Conclusion: Majority of the adult patients had dental caries with maxillary teeth more affected than mandibular teeth however, lower molars were the most affected tooth type (49.6%) and occlusal surfaces the most affected surface. Risk of developing dental caries was low.