The full form of DMT in dentistry is Decayed, Missing or Filled Permanent Teeth, also known as Decayed, Missing And Filled Teeth. This index is most commonly used to determine the patient's oral health. In addition, dentists use the DMFT index in oral epidemiology. The objective is also to assess dental caries and come up with a treatment plan accordingly to this. You will be surprised to know that the Decayed, Missing or Filled Permanent Teeth Index has been in use for over 75 years, and it is also the recommended measurement scale as per WHO.
To come up with a DMFT score, the individual tooth is visually examined. During the assessment, the focus is on the decay, filled teeth and missing teeth. A probe, cotton roll, and mirror are used during the assessment. A count of the decayed and restored teeth is established. The DMFT index is calculated without using an x-ray, and hence it has pros and cons. The patient is not exposed to the radiation, but at the same time, it may underestimate the need for treatment.
Other full forms of DMFT are Doctor in Marriage & Family Therapy and Density Matrix Functional Theory.