The decline in dental caries among Belgian children between 1983 and 1998

Objectives: to investigate cross-sectionally a probable dental caries decli ne in Belgian 12-yr-olds and to analyse some factors that may be associated with dental caries during the study period. Methods: In the region of Brus sels, children in the 7th grade at the same schools were sampled in 1983 (n =533) and 1998 (n= 496). DMFT, DMFS and dental fluorosis were clinically re corded. Data on children's home-based and professional dental health care h abits were registered. Results: Caries-free children increased from 4% to 5 0%. A reduction of the mean number of teeth attacked by dental caries from 7.5 to 1.6 and of tooth surfaces from 11.5 to 2.5 (P<0.001) was observed. E arly signs of dental fluorosis were identified in 5% in 1983 and 30% of the subjects in 1998. Multiple linear regression analyses revealed that tooth brushing with fluoridated toothpaste, dental appointments and dental fluoro sis were significantly related to dental caries reduction. Conclusions: A r emarkable decline in dental caries was observed during the 15-yr period. Th e factors related to the children's home-based and professional dental heal th care were associated with the observed decline.