[Tooth decay in school environment at Brazzaville (Congo)].

Aim: To determine the frequency of dental caries and habits that can be the cause of this disease in Brazzaville.

Methods: A prospective study was conducted in primary schools between February and May 2010. This study involved a sample of 307 students of both sexes, aged 4-15 years from school in the city of Brazzaville.

Results: Prevalence of dental caries was 53.4% and the index of DMFT 2.06. Use of toothbrush was 99.4%. Two children (0.7%) brushed their teeth three times a day. There was a statistical link between regularity of brushing and occurrence of caries. The prevalence of caries was of 53% in children who brushed once a day and 12.8% in those who brushed twice a day. No decay was noted in those who brushed three times a day (p = 0.001). The DMFT was 2.06 in children who used non-fluoridated toothpaste and 1.13 in those who used the fluoridated toothpaste (p = 0.002).

Conclusion: To ensure students a better oral hygiene and healthier teeth, a module in oral health education in schools is one of the way to fight against this public health problem.