Assessment of Dental Caries among a Group of Foundation Orphan Children and Parented School Children

Background: Children living in orphanages are often exposed to unfavorable socioeconomic and health conditions, which may affect their oral health status compared to their parented peers. Aim: This study aimed to assess and compare the prevalence of dental caries and associated risk factors between foundation orphan children and parented schoolchildren. Method: A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted involving 100 children aged 6–14 years, divided equally into two groups: Group A (orphaned children living in an institution) and Group B (parented schoolchildren). Data on sociodemographic factors, oral hygiene habits, dietary behaviors, and dental visits were collected through interviews. Clinical oral examinations assessed the DMFT index, gingival index, plaque index, and presence of early childhood caries (ECC). Results: Orphaned children had significantly higher DMFT and DMFS scores poorer among orphans, with lower brushing frequency and fluoride toothpaste use. Higher consumption of sugary snacks and beverages, along with fewer dental visits, was observed among orphans. Gingivitis, gingival bleeding, and plaque accumulation were also more prevalent in the orphan group. Multivariate regression identified orphan status with frequent sugar intake and low socioeconomic level as strong predictors of dental caries. Conclusion: Orphaned children exhibited significantly poorer oral health and hygiene behaviors compared to parented schoolchildren. Institutionalized care settings require targeted oral health interventions and policy attention to bridge the health disparity gap and improve the quality of life in this vulnerable population.