PubMed · 2002 · 57 citations · 0 references
DentistryDental Public HealthPediatric DentistryChild Oral HealthPediatric Dental CariesRisk Assessment In DentistryCaries EtiologyCaries In Permanent DentitionCaries PreventionCaries Risk AssessmentDental CariesDental Caries EtiologyCaries Experience MeasurementCaries Outcomes In ChildrenCaries Prevention In ChildrenCaries Risk IndicatorsCaries-related EtiologyDental Caries ExperienceDental Caries SeverityPermanent Dentition Involvement
This study examined the correlation between dark pigmented dental plaque (black stain) and caries. Black stain was observed in 67 of 1086 schoolchildren (from 6-12 years old). The mean DMF-T was 0.49 = 1.05 for children with black stain and 0.97 = 1.40 for children with black without black stain (p<0.05). The results suggest an association between black stain and a decreased caries experience at least in the permanent dentition. Further studies are necessary to examine the etiology and whether or not black stain can protect against caries.