Prevalência de defeitos de desenvolvimento do esmalte dentário em escolares da zona lesta de Manaus - Am

Abstract

Developmental Enamel Defects (DED) are manifestations of structural failures resulting from a disturbance occurring in one of the stages of amelogenesis. The objective of this study is to establish the prevalence and severity of DED and the dental caries experience among schoolchildren aged 6 to 15 years enrolled in public schools in the eastern zone of Manaus, Amazonas. This is an observational, analytical, cross-sectional, and descriptive study. The sample consisted of 750 students from six different schools. Data collection was carried out through na epidemiological clinical examination in the school environment, performed by a calibrated examiner, using artificial light, a wooden spatula, a No. 5 dental mirror, and periodontal WHO probe. After the individual examination, data were recorded on forms including DED, dental fluorosis severity, and dmft/DMFT index. Statistical analysis was performed using the Chi-square test and Student’s t-test. This study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the State University of Amazonas, under protocol CAAE 79453124.1.0000.5016. Data analysis revealed that 20.3% (152) of the schoolchildren presented some type of DED, with dental fluorosis being the most prevalent, representing 8.4% of this group. Additionally, 4.5% presented Molar–Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH), while 3.7% showed others enamel opacities. Dental fluorosis was observed in 10% of the total sample and classified according to Dean’s Index, which indicated that 5.1% presented very mild fluorosis, 4.3% mild, and 0.7% moderate. Dental caries was present in 48% of the analyzed sample, with the “decayed” component being the most prevalent. There was no statistically significant association between DED and dental caries. Enamel defects were found in 20.3% of the schoolchildren, with dental fluorosis being the most common (8.4%), followed by MIH (4.5%) and opacities (3.7%). Dental caries experience was present in 48% of the studied population. Therefore, the present study highlights the importance of regional epidemiological investigation of Developmental Enamel Defects, enabling the training of professionals prepared to carry out early clinical intervention, minimize sequelae, and improve the oral health of affected individuals.