This cross-sectional study aims to assess the prevalence of dental caries in the first permanent molars of Egyptian children aged 6 to 7 years, and to examine how this caries status relates to the children's dietary habits and oral hygiene practices. A total of 272 children will undergo a clinical oral examination, and their parents or guardians will complete a structured questionnaire covering diet, tooth-brushing habits, and socio-demographic background. The findings are intended to help identify risk factors associated with early caries in these key teeth, supporting better-targeted preventive dental care for this age group.
Age: 6 to 7 years old children
Children with written informed consent from their parents or guardians were included
Healthy child
Previous history/current radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy.
Presence of retained primary teeth or congenital or developmental anomalies affecting the permanent dentition.
Missing teeth due to causes other than dental caries.
Subjects undergoing orthodontic therapy, which might preclude normal tooth brushing.