DETERMINING THE PREVALENCE OF DENTAL CARIES AMONG SCHOOL STUDENTS IN FERGANA CITY

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of dental caries among schoolchildren in Fergana city and assess the main risk factors affecting it. As part of a cross-sectional epidemiological study, 420 schoolchildren aged 7–15 years underwent clinical examination. Caries intensity was assessed based on the DMFT index, and a questionnaire was administered on oral hygiene habits and consumption of sweet products. According to the results, the overall prevalence of caries was 68.3%. An increase in caries intensity was observed with increasing age (p < 0.01). Frequent consumption of sweet products and lack of regular tooth cleaning were identified as the main risk factors for the development of caries (p < 0.001). The results obtained indicate the need to strengthen preventive dental programs among school-age children..