Discrepancy in untreated dental caries prevalence by gender among patients coming to tertiary care hospital: A cross-sectional study

Background: The prevalence and severity of caries in a population is influenced by several risk factors like age, gender, dietary patterns, oral hygiene habits as well as social class. Extensive research has been conducted on gender disparities in dental caries among adults. Numerous studies have consistently indicated that females bear a greater burden of dental caries. Objectives: To compare the experience of untreated dental caries between genders Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted in tertiary hospital of Delhi in 250 children in the age group of 2-10 years. Caries was recorded for both primary and permanent teeth in terms of dmft/DMFT. The PUFA/pufa index was used to assess the clinical consequences of untreated dental caries. Results: 250 children between the ages of 2-10 years were assessed. Mean DMF of study population was 0.35±0.89 and dmf was 5.79±4.06. Untreated caries was found to be more in females as compared to males although difference was not statistically significant(p=0.477). Mean PUFA score was 0.20±0.50 and pufa score was 2.28±1.68. Mean pufa score for females was 2.35±1.73 and males it was found to be 2.22±1.64. Conclusion: Although statistical difference was not observed in genderwise prevalence of untreated dental caries but still females had slightly greater caries experience. A gender gap created by biologic and cultural influences, including behavioral and dietary variations, places women at a disadvantage in overall oral health. Cultural and social differences between men and women influence their oral health status by affecting their exposure to risk factors and shaping their access to protective factors and care.