Method: A cross-sectional descriptive study was done with clinical screening of the sample group under natural light with a mirror and a probe using the WHO criteria. Participants included all 109 students enrolled with the School and Centre for Special Needs in Tarawa, Kiribati with an age range of 6-33 years.
Result: The total number of students screened who attended school on the day of screening was 57 out of 109, i.e. about 50% of enrolled students. The average dmft/DMFT score was 4 and sic index of 9, the major contributor to the dmft is the d component. The CPI score 2 and above was almost 70% with CPI -2 of 50% having calculus, CPI- 3 and 4 of 16% having pocketing 4mm and above.
Conclusion: The oral health status of the students of the School and Centre for Special Needs in terms of DMFT/dmft and CPI is very poor and in great need of intervention schemes.