PERMANENT TOOTH CARIES EXPERIENCE AMONG STUDENTS AGED 10–12 YEARS AT STATE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 18 SITAPUNG, AGAM REGENCY, INDONESIA

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to describe the caries experience of permanent teeth among students aged 10–12 years at State Elementary School 18 Sitapung, Agam Regency, Indonesia. Methodology: A descriptive study was conducted in June 2026. Of the 62 students aged 10–12 years, 55 who met the inclusion criteria were examined through saturated sampling. Caries experience was measured with the Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMF-T) index using a mouth mirror, a dental explorer, and a standard examination form, and the data were analysed univariately. Findings: The mean decayed component was 1.89, the mean missing component was 0.05, and no filled teeth were found (mean 0.00). The total DMF-T score was 107, giving a mean DMF-T of 1.95, which falls into the low severity category. Nevertheless, 65.5% of the students were classified under the poor DMF-T criterion, and untreated decay made up 97.2% of all caries experience. Practical implications: The results reveal a substantial unmet need for restorative care and support strengthening school-based dental services through six-monthly check-ups, early fillings, reduced consumption of cariogenic snacks, and twice-daily toothbrushing after breakfast and before bed. Originality/value: This is the first oral health study conducted at this school, and it provides baseline data for the local community health centre to plan promotive, preventive, and curative dental programmes for school-age children.

Keywords: Caries Experience, Decayed Missing Filled Teeth Index, Dental Caries, Elementary School Students, Permanent Teeth.

Article Category: Original Research