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294 children aged 2-4 yr attending nursery schools in Northern Ireland were examined for dental caries and dental registration status under the capitation system in general dental practice. Their mean age was 3 yr 10 months. Sixty eight per cent were caries free, mean dmft was 1.10 and dt, mt and ft scores were 0.74, 0.28 and 0.09, respectively. With increasing age the prevalence of caries increased, though the very low care index (d/dmft) did improve in the older children. Seventy per cent reported being registered for dental care and their levels of dental caries were significantly higher than those who were not yet enrolled (P<0.001). For those not enrolled for dental care the main perceived barriers to seeking care related to lack of symptoms (33.6%) and apathy (31.6%) while few reported fear as a barrier (4.5%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers information on the treatment guidelines for intruded permanent incisor teeth in children in Great Britain. It mentions that antibiotic treatment for periodontal or pulpal healing is unproven though its usage is ruled through clinical judgement. It adds that root canal therapy could be used for incomplete root development of the teeth after a pulp necrosis diagnosis, and parents and patients could also be informed of clinical results of intrusive luxation.