Assessment of oral health status and treatment needs amongst the tribals residing in Northern Bhubaneswar, Odisha

INTRODUCTION: Odisha has the third highest percentage of tribal population in India. This study was conducted to evaluate the oral health status and treatment needs of tribal population residing in northern Bhubaneswar. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A crosssectional household survey was conducted using the modified WHO Oral Health Assessment Form (2013). Cluster random sampling technique was employed. Type III clinical examination was done. Statistical analysis was carried out using Chi square test, t test and ANOVA. RESULTS: A total of 877 participants were examined out of which 589 were males and 288 females with age ranging from 2-74 years. The mean dmft score was 4.13 ± 0.73 in 2-5-year-old participants, and in the age groups of 35-44 years and 65-74 years, the scores were 5.32 ± 2.36 and 7.56 ± 4.29 respectively. Statistically significant differences were observed in the presence of healthy gums, bleeding gums and presence of shallow pockets across the different age groups. Preventive treatment was required mostly by the participants in the age group 13-15 years. CONCLUSION: The present study showed a high prevalence of dental caries and periodontal disease among the study participants. Preventive treatment was required mostly by the participants in the age group 13-15 years.