Introduction: Root caries is one of the most common and significant dental health problem among older adults today. Over the years, root caries has been the major reason for tooth loss in older adults, and has negative impact on oral health related quality of life in elderly individuals. Aim: The study was done to assess the prevalence and risk factors associated with root caries  among elderly individuals attending I.T.S Dental College Greater Noida. Materials & Methods:  A total sample of 380 individuals aged  from 65­74 years old who attended the dental college of Greater Noida were included in the study. A face­to­face interview using a prevalidated structured questionnaire was conducted to collect the information of the subjects including their demographic characteristics were recorded. The prevalence of root surface caries was evaluated using the Katz Index. Chi square test and Logistic regression analysis was used for statistical analysis. Results:  The prevalence of root caries in our study population was found to be 45.7%. Risk factors included smoking, dryness of mouth, tobacco chewing were significantly associated with root caries. Conclusion: The study concluded that root caries prevalence was high in the elderly individuals, . Factors including demographic variables e.g: age, gender and deleterious habits including smoking, tobacco chewing and alcohol consumption had a definite impact on the prevalence of root caries.

Keywords: Prevalence; Root Caries; Risk Factor; Root Caries Index; Elderly Individuals.