Oral Health Of 11-13-Year-Old Children In Cixi

This cross-sectional study investigated oral health status and associated factors among 11–13-year-old children in Cixi, Zhejiang Province, China. Multi-stage stratified random sampling selected participants aged 11–13 years (Grade Six) from primary schools across Cixi. Oral examinations (dental caries, periodontal health, occlusal characteristics, fluorosis) were conducted in a dental bus by two calibrated dentists. Sociodemographic characteristics, oral health behaviors, knowledge, and attitudes were collected through a self-administered questionnaire. Bivariate analyses utilized chi-square and Mann-Whitney U tests, while regression models addressed count and binary outcomes. The study included 421 children (61% aged 12 years) from ten primary schools, revealing a caries prevalence of 39% and a mean DMFT of 0.86 ± 1.41. Among 364 carious teeth, 48% (173/364) were filled (FT) and 52% (191/364) remained untreated (DT). Mandibular first permanent molars showed the highest caries prevalence (right: 23.0%, left: 21.9%). Pit and fissure sealant rate of first permanent molars is 25% (426/1684). While 48% (203/421) participants exhibited healthy gums, 48% (201/421) had plaque gingivitis. A total of 270 students (64%) displayed normal occlusal characteristics. One case (0.2%) of moderate dental fluorosis was observed. Negative binomial regression linked frequent dessert and candy consumption to higher caries experience (p<0.05). Multivariate logistic regression associated plaque gingivitis with age and usage of dental floss (p<0.05). Prevalent untreated caries and plaque gingivitis in Cixi adolescents highlight modifiable dietary and behavioral risks warranting targeted prevention interventions.