Perfil epidemiológico en salud bucal de estudiantes de la Escuela Alfredo Pareja Diezcanseco, Guayaquil – Ecuador.

Abstract

Introduction: Oral health is an essential component of general health and can influence psychological, physical, and social well-being. Caries, malocclusions, and periodontal diseases can compromise oral health, especially in children. Objective: The purpose of this study was to characterize the epidemiological profile of oral health in students enrolled in the 2024-2025 school year at the Alfredo Pareja Diezcanseco School in Guayaquil, Ecuador. Materials and methods: Quantitative, cross-sectional, observational-descriptive design. Sample size: 216 medical records. The dental caries index (CPO-D/CEO-D), simplified oral hygiene index, malocclusion according to the Angle classification, type of dental treatment (preventive/restorative), sex, and age of the patients were analyzed. Results: A high prevalence of caries (67.6%) was found. The temporary tooth most affected by caries was 7.5 (32.70%) and in the permanent teeth they were 4.6 (37.20%) and 3.6 (30.10%). A value of 1.97 was recorded for ceo-d and in the CPO-D index a value of 1.89 was obtained, both considered low. 42.10% of the students had good hygiene, 6% had poor hygiene. Angle Class I predominated (48.10%). 100% of the students were prescribed prophylaxis and application of fluoride, 52.15% of the temporary pieces and 47.85% of the permanent pieces needed restorations. Conclusion: The high demand for restorative treatments, both for temporary and permanent pieces, in addition to certain radical treatments in temporary pieces, show the need to implement continuous preventive programs, to maintain and reinforce school dental surveillance.