Comparative evaluation of International Caries Classification and Management System (ICCMSTM) and Cariogram as caries risk assessment tools.

Abstract

Background: Early identification of high-risk children through caries risk assessment tools is crucial for effective caries control. With the growing interest in utilizing such tools, adherence to standardized guidelines is essential.  Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of ICCMS™ and Cariogram as caries risk assessment tools and their application in developing preventive protocols for children.  Methods and Materials: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry at Babu Banarasi Das College of Dental Sciences, Lucknow, following approval from the Institutional Research Committee. After obtaining informed consent from caregivers, demographic data were collected, and intraoral examinations were performed for caries risk assessment. Caries severity was recorded using the ICDAS criteria. Protective, biological, and etiological factors required for creating a caries risk profile were documented based on the Cariogram and International Caries Classification and Management System (ICCMS™).  Statistical Analysis: Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 17. A p-value <0.05 at a 95% confidence interval was considered statistically significant.  Results: A total of 41 children aged 3–12 years participated in the study. The analysis revealed no significant differences between the two multifactorial risk assessment models in terms of caries risk status (χ² = 1.02, p = 0.797) or caries experience (χ² = 2.93, p = 0.232). Conclusions: Both ICCMS™ and Cariogram demonstrated similar caries risk profiles and were effective tools for caries risk assessment in children.