AIM: To examine the prevalence of dental caries in 12-year-old schoolchildren from Baghdad after the end of the United Nations' economic sanctions and to investigate related dental caries risk factors including gender, socio-demographic factors, oral hygiene and sugar intake.

DESIGN: A cross-sectional dental caries examination and questionnaire survey was conducted in 10 schools from west Baghdad.

METHODS: Dental examinations based on WHO criteria and questionnaire surveys were performed on 392 children. Water samples were collected and fluoride concentration assessed.

RESULTS: The mean DMFT and DF were 1.7 and 1.3. The rate of caries experience (DMFT > 0) was 62%. DMFT increased significantly with higher education of the mother, not being embarrassed to smile, missing school due to dental pain and between-meals mode of drinking. Increased sugar consumption was associated with being a boy, having mothers with low education, living in a low socio-economic area and brushing at least once-a-day. Positive oral hygiene practices were higher for girls. Western sweet snacks were preferred and sweet tea was frequently consumed. The fluoride content in drinking water was too low for caries prevention.

CONCLUSION: It is important to maintain the low prevalence of caries among children by increasing awareness and promoting oral health care strategies.