Comparison of efficacy of ICDAS, CAST, Nyvad’s criteria, SCI and WHO–DMFT in caries identification among six to twelve year old children

Abstract

The aim of the study was to compare the ICDAS, the CAST, the DMF, the Nyvad criteria and the SCI with respect to their ability in identification of caries in the individuals from six to twelve years of age and also the time required for recording each indices. Materials and Methods: A total of 47 children visiting the hospital were selected and examined. Examination was done in the dental chair with adequate light. Oral prophylaxis was done. Subsequently, examination was performed by the examiner according to DMFT system, ICDAS, CAST, Nyvad's criteria and SCI and the information forms were recorded. Chi square test and one way ANOVA were used for data analysis. Results: In this study, the no statistically significant difference was shown by number of sound teeth. For caries involving enamel, there was statistical difference seen. For caries involving dentin, Distinct/Active Cavity lesions, statistically significant difference was seen. For pulp involvement, statistically significant differences were observed. For, restored teeth, there was statistical difference but missing teeth due to caries did not show any statistically significant difference. The mean time taken to apply the DMF was 1mins 17secs; for ICDAS, 3mins 32secs, for CAST, 3min 30secs, for Nyvad's Criteria, 2mins 34secs and for SCI it took 1min 2secs. Conclusion: A common method for classification of caries identification is ambiguous. DMFT and SCI is the most simple and less time consuming method. ICDAS addresses the all the progressive stages of the caries.