The effects of socioeconomic status, oral and dental health practices, and nutritional status on dental health in 12-year-old school children

Abstract

Background This study aims to examine the effects of socioeconomic status, oral, and dental health practices, dietary habits and anthropometric measurements on dental health in 12-year-old schoolchildren. Methods The sample of the study consisted of a total of 254 children (44.1% boys and 55.9% girls) in three schools which were identified as low, moderate and high socioeconomic status. The data were collected by face-to-face interviews via a questionnaire form. Dentist determined DMFT and dmft indices of the children. SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) package program was used to analyze the data. Results It was found that 70.9% of the children have dental caries on their permanent teeth. The number of girls with caries in permanent teeth and boys with caries in milk teeth was higher (p < 0.05). The frequency of seeing a dentist and changing toothbrush vary according to the socioeconomic status (p < 0.05). Oral and dental health indicators were determined to be affected by the frequency and duration of tooth brushing (p < 0.05). It was found that dmft values of the children consuming molasses and table sugar are lower (p < 0.05). There is a negative correlation between oral and dental health indicators and anthropometric measurements. Conclusion Dietary habits, anthropometric measurements, oral and dental health practices, gender, and socioeconomic status were shown to be effective on caries. Caries risk assessment and determining leading risk factors enable effective prevention programs to be implemented at different levels.

Parental education and attitude of young adults towards their oral health - A cross-sectional study

“…17 Furthermore, studies show parental knowledge and education can influence the oral health practices, and awareness of the offspring which can lead to better utilization of health care services. 18 SES and health have a linear relationship and individuals with a higher level of education have better self-rated oral health (SROH). 19 Literature on education as a variable of SES, showed the association to be stronger between lower education level and refrainment from dental treatments.…”