OBJECTIVE:

To determine the prevalence of pulpally involved permanent teeth in children and adolescents aged 6-18 years in Saudi Arabia.

METHOD:

A systematic random sample was collected from the primary care files in the College of Dentistry in Riyadh. Data were collected from a total of 997 files and entered into a database and statistical program.

RESULTS:

A high prevalence rate of 35.8% of individuals with pulpally involved teeth was found. More extractions, pulp cappings, and root canal treatments were provided as the age increased. In all age groups molars were the most affected, and canines were the least. Maxillary incisors were affected more than mandibular incisors, while mandibular molars were affected more than maxillary molars. Females had more pulpally involved teeth than males.

CONCLUSIONS:

It is suggested that early oral interventions, prevention and dental education for the patients and their families may decrease this high prevalence level of pulpal involvement in teeth in this age group.