Objectives. This paper describes the occurrence of dental caries in children and adolescents in Greenland and the disease pattern is analysed across districts and over time. Study design. Cross-sectional population surveys of children aged 6, 12 and 15 years. Methods. Data were stored in the oral health information system established for the Greenland Public Dental Health Services, recording the dental health status of children served by the programme. The participation rate is approximately 100%. In 2003, the study population counted 645 6-year-olds; 587 12-year-olds, and 488 15-year-olds. Dental caries is clinically recorded according to the criteria used by the Danish Public Dental Health Services.