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Abstract
Abstract. Dental caries remains one of the most prevalent chronic diseases among school-age children worldwide. The progression and prevalence of caries are influenced by multifactorial determinants, including dietary habits, oral hygiene practices, fluoride exposure, and environmental conditions such as water mineralization and air quality. The present study aimed to assess the dynamics of caries prevalence in school-age children and determine the impact of key environmental factors in different ecological zones. A total of 240 schoolchildren aged 7–15 years were examined, divided into three groups based on their residential environment (urban, semi-urban, and rural). The study included dental examinations, fluoride and calcium analysis of drinking water, and evaluation of environmental indicators. The results revealed significant regional variations in caries intensity, with higher prevalence in areas characterized by low fluoride and calcium concentrations in water and higher industrial pollution. The findings highlight the necessity of integrating environmental and preventive health strategies to reduce caries incidence in children.
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