Dental caries is the most widespread oral disease in the world. It is as ancient as mankind and has longest association with dental profession. The prevalence of dental caries has been of great concern for long and is a principal subject of many epidemiological researches carried out in India and abroad. The prevalence pattern of dental caries varies not only with age, sex, socio economic status, race, geographical location, food habits and oral hygiene practices but also within the oral cavity. However, it is still a major oral health concern in developing countries due to lack of dental awareness among people. The disease not only causes damage to the tooth, but is also responsible for several morbid conditions of the oral cavity.