Journal of AdvancedMedical and Dental Sciences Research

Oral health is an integral part of general health. Socioeconomic status(SES) is one of the most important factor which influence the oral health and oral health practices of an individual. Present study conducted on 2600 preschool children taken in groups(I-V) according to their SES from Anganwadis and Nursery schools. Mean dt ranged from 0.93 - 1.67, mean mt ranges from 0.03- 0.22, mean ft ranges from 0.13-0.18 and mean dmft ranged from 1.15-2.02 in SES groups I-V. The dm and dmft were found to be significantly affected by the SES group. Tooth brushing practice and use of toothpaste decreased from upper SES to lower one. Tooth brushing twice a day was mainly found in uppermost SES which was 15.81%. Results showed a significant relation between oral health status and oral health practices among different socioeconomic groups. Oral health promotion programmes should include preventive measures, while public health strategies should focus on community empowerment and development of accessible and responsive dental services.
Key words: Dental caries, preschool children, socioeconomic status, oral hygiene practices.