Dental caries and childhood obesity: roles of diet and socioeconomic status

Secular trends in dental caries in Korean children and adolescents: 2007-2019 Korea National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey

Dental caries is a common preventable childhood disease that has negative effects on physical, psychological, and social well-being. The present study was conducted to examine the secular trends in the prevalence of dental caries among Korean children and adolescents over time through subgroup analysis based on age, sex, abdominal obesity, obesity, and metabolic syndrome (MetS). This serial cross-sectional study utilized representative data from the Korea National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey, covering the period from 2007 to 2019. The study participants included 9,702 children and adolescents aged between 10 and 18 years. A linear-by-linear association test was performed to evaluate the secular trend of dental caries according to the subgroups. The mean prevalence of dental caries significantly decreased in both boys and girls during the study period (all p-values for trend < 0.001). These trends were consistent across different age subgroups: 10-12, 13-15, and 16-18 years. In subgroup analysis, the prevalence of dental caries significantly decreased in normal-weight boys and girls (all p-values for trend < 0.001). However, no significant decrease was observed in the overweight or obese groups for either sex. Importantly, the prevalence of dental caries did not decrease significantly in subgroups with abdominal obesity or MetS. In the non-abdominal obesity group, both boys and girls showed a significant decrease in dental caries prevalence (all p-values for trend < 0.001), while in the abdominal obesity group, a significant decrease was observed only in boys (p-value for trend = 0.027). No significant decrease was observed in the abdominal obesity group for girls. Similarly, in the non-MetS group, both boys and girls showed a significant decrease in dental caries prevalence (all p-values for trend < 0.001), while no significant decrease was observed in the MetS group for both sexes. The prevalence of dental caries has significantly decreased over the past 13 years among Korean children and adolescents. However, in subgroups with obesity or overweight, abdominal obesity, and MetS, no decrease was observed in the prevalence of dental caries.

Association between overweight/obesity and dental outcomes in early childhood: Findings from an Australian cohort study

OBJECTIVES

Oral health is an important part of general health and well-being and shares risk factors, such as poor diet, with obesity. The published literature assessing the association between obesity and oral health in early childhood is sparse and inconsistent. The objective of this study was to investigate associations between overweight/obesity (measured by body mass index) and dental outcomes (caries, plaque index and gingival index) both cross-sectionally and longitudinally, taking account of potential confounding factors, based on data collected at age 2 and age 5 within the Australian Study of Mothers' and Infants' Life Events Affecting Oral Health (SMILE) birth cohort study.

METHODS

This study used data from 1174 SMILE participants. Associations between overweight/obesity and dental outcomes were assessed using generalized linear regression models for the modified Poisson family with log link to estimate prevalence ratios. Cross-sectional and longitudinal models were fitted, after minimal and full adjustment for potential confounders.

RESULTS

Approximately 12% of the participants were overweight/obese at 2 years and 9% at 5 years. Between 2 and 5 years, the prevalence of caries increased from approximately 4% to 24%, at least mild plaque accumulation increased from 37% to 90% and at least mild inflammation from 27% to 68%. There were no associations between overweight/obesity and the prevalence of dental caries; prevalence ratios (PR) [95% confidence interval (CI)] after adjustment for age and sex were 0.9 (0.3, 2.4) cross-sectionally at 2 years, 1.0 (0.6, 1.5) cross-sectionally at 5 years, and 1.0 (0.6, 1.5) for overweight/obesity at 2 years and caries at 5 years. Prevalence ratios were all around the value of 1 for the other dental outcomes and also after adjustment for additional confounders.

CONCLUSIONS

There were no associations between overweight/obesity and dental caries, plaque index or gingival index in this cohort of preschool children. However, associations may emerge as the children become older, and it will be possible to extend analyses to include data collected at age 7 in the near future.

Childhood obesity in relation to risk of dental caries: a cumulative and dose-response systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Earlier studies reported inconsistent findings for the association of childhood obesity with the risk of dental caries. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we aimed to summarize earlier studies on the association of overweight and obesity with risk of dental caries in children.

METHODS

Relevant studies published up to December 2023 were identified through searches in PubMed, MEDLINE, SCOPUS, EMBASE, and Google Scholar, using suitable keywords. All observational studies, including cross-sectional or cohort or case-control studies, about the association of each obesity index with risk of dental caries in children which reported odds ratio (OR), hazard ratio (HR), or relative risk (RR) and 95% CIs, were included. Studies involving adults, randomized clinical trials, studies on animals or pregnant women, and studies on other dental disorders were excluded. Risk of bias was assessed using standard methods for observational studies. A total of 22 studies including 40673 participants were included. Studies were pooled using the random-effect model, and results were synthesized with subgroup analyses and assessments of heterogeneity. Limitations included potential publication bias and heterogeneity among study designs. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale (NOS).

RESULTS

Children at the highest category of BMI were 44% more likely to have early childhood caries (ECC) than those at the bottom (OR: 1.44; 95% CI: 1.16 to 1.78). Moreover, combined analysis also showed no significant association between waist circumference (WC) and risk of dental caries in children. However, significant linear and non-linear associations were found between BMI and risk of childhood dental caries. No publication bias was found for the relationship between BMI and the risk of ECC based on visual inspection of a funnel plot and Egger's test.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed a significant direct association between BMI and the risk of dental caries in children. Non-linear analysis showed higher risk of dental caries in children with higher BMI and also among underweight children. Further prospective studies are required to expand current knowledge in this issue.

IMPACT STATEMENT

The findings of this study have significant implications for public health and dental care, suggesting association between BMI and the risk of dental caries in children. This comprehensive meta-analysis is among the first to summarize earlier publications on the association of obesity with risk of dental caries in children, highlighting the need for more accurate methods of obesity assessment and further research to understand this relationship better. These findings can help inform public health policies and interventions to reduce the prevalence of childhood obesity and dental caries.

Oral health and multimorbidity: is diet the chicken or the egg?

Oral health is a critical component of overall health and well-being, not just the absence of disease. The objective of this review paper is to describe relationships among diet, nutrition and oral and systemic diseases that contribute to multimorbidity. Diet- and nutrient-related risk factors for oral diseases include high intakes of free sugars, low intakes of fruits and vegetables and nutrient-poor diets which are similar to diet- and nutrient-related risk factors for systemic diseases. Oral diseases are chronic diseases. Once the disease process is initiated, it persists throughout the lifespan. Pain and tissue loss from oral disease leads to oral dysfunction which contributes to impaired biting, chewing, oral motility and swallowing. Oral dysfunction makes it difficult to eat nutrient-dense whole grains, fruits and vegetables associated with a healthy diet. Early childhood caries (ECC) associated with frequent intake of free sugars is one of the first manifestations of oral disease. The presence of ECC is our 'canary in the coal mine' for diet-related chronic diseases. The dietary sugars causing ECC are not complementary to an Eatwell Guide compliant diet, but rather consistent with a diet high in energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods - typically ultra-processed in nature. This diet generally deteriorates throughout childhood, adolescence and adulthood increasing the risk of diet-related chronic diseases. Recognition of ECC is an opportunity to intervene and disrupt the pathway to multimorbidities. Disruption of this pathway will reduce the risk of multimorbidities and enable individuals to fully engage in society throughout the lifespan.

Obesity and Dental Caries in School Children

(1) Background: Childhood obesity and dental caries are common chronic conditions with multiple contributing factors, linked to negative health consequences and significant expenses in healthcare. The aim of this study was to assess the correlation between obesity and dental caries in school-aged children; (2) Methods: Data from 3323 6-12-year-old children from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011-2016 were analyzed. The NHANES was conducted at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States. The CDC standard was used to define obesity. Dental caries was measured during clinical examinations and summarized using DMFT scores for caries experience and prevalence (dt > 0) for untreated caries. The study examined the correlation between obesity and dental caries using regression models that considered demographic variables, family socioeconomic status, and the child's intake of added sugars as controlling factors; (3) Results: The association between obesity and dental caries was not significant in either unadjusted or adjusted models; and (4) Conclusion: The data indicate that untreated caries and caries experiences are not directly correlated with childhood obesity. There are, however, common causes of poor dental health and childhood obesity: culture, poverty level, lifestyle, and family traditions and habits. Dentists must be aware of factors influencing the development of childhood caries so that they can intervene as early as possible.

Household, dietary, and clinical characteristics of childhood caries and overweight progression-A prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Childhood caries and obesity are complex chronic diseases with negative health outcomes.

AIM

This study sought a risk profile for childhood caries and overweight.

DESIGN

Children were recruited into a longitudinal prospective cohort study. Caries and overweight characteristics were obtained at baseline, 6, 12, and 18 months. Sequential data modeling steps determined a disease risk profile.

RESULTS

At baseline, 50% of the children (n = 194, 3.0 to 6.9 years) had caries; 24% were overweight, of whom 50% had caries. Correlation analysis separated child characteristics from household circumstances. Principal component modeling separated child snacking from meal-eating patterns, and household smoking from parent education variables. Baseline caries and overweight were not associated, but they grouped together in the modeling of composite features. Forty-five percent of children showed caries progression, 29% overweight progression, and 10% progression of both diseases. The strongest predictors of progression were disease presence, household-based characteristics, and sugary drinks. Children with caries and overweight progression shared multiple child- and household-based features.

CONCLUSION

Individually, caries and overweight were not associated. Children with progression of both conditions shared a profile and multiple risk characteristics suggesting these findings could be useful in assessing the risk for the most extreme cases of caries and overweight.

Association of Early Childhood Caries with Body Mass Index, Dietary Habits, and Socioeconomic Status among Preschool Children of Kelambakkam

Introduction

One of the most prevalent oral diseases affecting preschoolers, early childhood caries (ECC), can significantly lower a child's quality of life. The pain and discomfort that ECC causes will alter the child's eating habits, which will have an impact on both their physical and mental health, as shown by the deviation from the body mass index (BMI). Dental caries and deviation from the normal BMI are both significantly influenced by children's eating habits and socioeconomic status (SES).

Aim

To determine the association of ECC with BMI, dietary habits, and SES among 3-6-year-old preschool children.

Materials and methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 375 preschool children of 3-6 years of age. The decayed, missing, or filled teeth (deft) index was used to determine the caries status. Measurement of height (m) and weight (kg) was done using a stadiometer and electronic weighing machine. For each child, the BMI (kg/m2) was calculated, and the child's body weight status was assessed using Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)-based classification. Questionnaires were collected with demographic details, 3 days diet diary, and the SES of parents. The dietary habit and SES were obtained from the healthy eating index-2005 (HEI-2005) score and Modified Kuppuswamy's Scale 2018. All the data were entered and analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software V 20.0.

Result

The prevalence of ECC was 44.8%. On comparison of mean height, weight, and BMI scores, there was a significant difference in mean weight (p = 0.006) and BMI (p = 0.001) among the two study groups. Children with ECC had a lower HEI-2005 score and belonged to a lower social class compared to caries-free children (p = 0.001).

Conclusion

Children with ECC are significantly associated with BMI being overweight, or risk of being overweight; lower grades of SES and lower total score of HEI-2005 with poor diet and diet that needs improvement.

How to cite this article

Suresh A, Srinivasan D, AR SE, et al. Association of Early Childhood Caries with Body Mass Index, Dietary Habits, and Socioeconomic Status among Preschool Children of Kelambakkam. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2023;16(4):565-571.

Association between dental caries and obesity among Libyan schoolchildren during the armed conflict in Benghazi

BACKGROUND

Dental caries and Obesity in children are issues of public health concern. Even though researching the relationship between these two noncommunicable diseases has been conducted for many years, the results remain equivocal. This paper aimed to examine the association between dental caries and obesity among 12-year-old schoolchildren living in war-affected environment in Benghazi.

METHODS

A secondary analysis of a cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the prevalence of caries among 12-year-old school children in Benghazi in 2017 during the armed conflict that affected the city. The data extracted for the analysis included sociodemographic of the participants (gender, maternal education and school type), caries experience (DMFT index), and anthropometric measures (height in cm, weight in kg, BMI and Z score for BMI). Comparisons of anthropometric measures were conducted according to caries experience. Linear regression models were developed to determine the association between Body Mass Index and Z score as outcome variables, caries as an explanatory variable, and covariates (gender, maternal education and school type). Beta coefficient (β) and 95% confidence intervals were calculated. All statistical tests were conducted at p ≤ 0.05.

RESULTS

There were 782 children with a mean (SD) BMI of 20.7 SD5.09 and an average z (SD) score of 0.56 SD1.51. Also, 159 (20%) children had obesity. No significant association was observed between caries and anthropometric measures. However, higher BMI was observed in children from a private school (p ≤ 0.001***), females (p ≤ 0.001***) and self-reported regular sugary drinks consumers (p ≤ 0.001***).

CONCLUSION

The present study shows no significant association between dental caries and anthropometric measures. However, the study findings support the notion of tackling sugar intake as a common risk factor for caries and obesity, which should be encouraged in the Libyan culture.

The Relationship between Obesity and Childhood Dental Caries in the United States

Background: Childhood obesity and dental caries are prevalent chronic, multifactorial conditions with adverse health consequences and considerable healthcare costs. The aims of this study were: (1) to evaluate the relationship between obesity and dental caries among young children using multiple definitions for both conditions, and (2) to evaluate the role of family socioeconomic status (SES) and the child’s intake of added sugars in explaining this association. Methods: Data from 2775 2−5-year-olds children from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011−2018 were analysed. Three different international standards were used to define obesity, namely the World Health Organization (WHO), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the International Obesity Task Force (IOTF). Dental caries was measured during clinical examinations and summarised as counts (dt and dft scores) and prevalence (untreated caries [dt > 0] and caries experience [dft > 0]). The association of obesity with dental caries was assessed in regression models controlling for demographic factors, family SES and child’s intake of added sugars. Results: In crude models, obesity was associated with greater dt scores when using the IOTF standards (RR: 2.43, 95% CI: 1.11, 5.29) but not when using the WHO and CDC standards; obesity was associated with greater dft scores when using the WHO (1.57, 95%CI: 1.11−2.22), CDC (1.70, 95%CI: 1.17−2.46) and IOTF standards (2.43, 95%CI: 1.73−3.42); obesity was associated with lifetime caries prevalence when using the WHO (1.55, 95%CI: 1.05−2.29), CDC (1.73, 95%CI: 1.14−2.62) and IOTF standards (2.45, 95%CI: 1.61−3.71), but not with untreated caries prevalence. These associations were fully attenuated after controlling for demographic factors, family SES and child’s intake of added sugars. Conclusions: The relationship between obesity and dental caries in primary teeth varied based on the definition of obesity and dental caries used. Associations were observed when obesity was defined using the IOTF standards and dental caries was defined using lifetime indicators. Associations were fully attenuated after adjusting for well-known determinants of both conditions.

Excess Weight and Dental Caries throughout Childhood and Adolescence: Systematic Review of Longitudinal Studies

Objective

The aim of the present study was to analyze existing scientific evidence on the longitudinal association between overweight/obesity and dental caries in children and adolescents and indicate possible gaps in the literature to guide future studies.

Study design

A systematic search of the literature was performed for the identification of longitudinal studies on this issue. The search strategy included words related to the outcome (dental caries), exposure (overweight/obesity), population (children and adolescents), and study design (longitudinal) of interest. Searches were performed in the PubMed, Web of Science, and Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS) databases. The risk of bias in the studies was appraised using the tool for the critical analysis of cohort studies proposed by the Joanna Briggs Institute.

Results

Among the 400 studies retrieved from the databases, only seven met the inclusion criteria and were selected to compose the present review. Five of the studies had a low risk of bias, but all had methodological flaws. As the studies reported different findings, the association between obesity and dental caries continues to be undefined. Moreover, there is a lack of well-designed studies on this issue with standardized methods to enable comparisons.

Conclusion

Future studies should consider longitudinal designs, more precise diagnostic methods for obesity and dental caries, as well as the rigorous control of confounding factors and effect modifiers.

How to cite this article

Silveira MG, Schneider BC, Tillmann TF, et al. Excess Weight and Dental Caries throughout Childhood and Adolescence: Systematic Review of Longitudinal Studies. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2022;15(6):691-698.

The effect of unhealthy dietary habits on the incidence of dental caries and overweight/obesity among Egyptian school children (A cross-sectional study)

Background

Obesity and dental caries are public health problems in Egypt. Factors such as unhealthy diet, poor oral hygiene, and physical inactivity can play a major role in both problems. This study was carried out to illuminate the mutual unhealthy dietary risk factors associated with the incidence of both health conditions.

Methods

Between 1 October 2020 and 1 July 2021, 369 Egyptian children (5-10 years) were examined. Dental status was assessed using decayed, missing/extracted, and filled tooth indices (dmft, deft, and DMFT) for deciduous, mixed, and permanent dentitions, respectively. Moreover, the lifestyle, food habits, and body mass index (BMI) were recorded.

Results

A total of 342 (93.7%) of the included subjects suffered from caries, and only 27(7.3%) were caries-free. Based on BMI percentiles, 247 (66.9%) of the youngsters were overweight/obese, while 122 (33.1%) had normal weight. The mean dmft was 6.9 (±4.6), deft 4.2 (±3.3), and DMFT 0.1 (±1.7). In the primary dentition, a significant positive correlation was detected between dmft and BMI, legumes, sweetened milk and juice, soft drinks, and desserts, while a significant negative correlation was detected between dmft/deft, meat/poultry/fish, fresh fruits, and vegetables. A significant positive correlation was detected between deft and BMI, sweetened milk and juice, ice cream, candies, and crackers. In the permanent dentition, a significant positive correlation was detected between age, soft drinks, sweetened juice, desserts, and DMFT, while a significant negative correlation was detected with fresh fruits and vegetables. BMI was significantly negatively correlated with a healthy lifestyle, meat/poultry/fish consumption, and fresh fruits and vegetables while positively correlated with legumes, ice cream, soft drinks, granulated sugars, desserts, fast food, and caffeinated drinks.

Conclusion

Overweight/obesity was positively correlated with primary dentition dental caries. Desserts (sweetened snacks) and soft drinks could be the common risk factors associated with high caries and overweight/obesity incidence among Egyptian school children; conversely, consumption of fruits and vegetables could hinder both health conditions. Moreover, sweetened juices were associated with primary and permanent dental caries.

Obesity and oral health in Mexican children and adolescents: systematic review and meta-analysis

CONTEXT

A relationship between obesity and poor oral health has been reported.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association between overweight/obesity and oral health in Mexican children and adolescents.

DATA SOURCES

A literature search was conducted of 13 databases and 1 search engine for articles published from 1995 onward.

DATA ANALYSIS

A total of 18 publications were included. Evidence was inconclusive and varied according to sociodemographic factors or outcome measuring tools. The Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth and Filled Teeth Surfaces indices and the decayed extracted filled teeth index outcomes were included in a random effects model meta-analysis. Pooled estimates showed no statistically significant oral health differences (measured via the decayed extracted filled teeth or the Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth Surfaces indexes) among body mass index (BMI) categories. However, pooled estimates of 6 studies showed that children with higher BMI had worse oral health in permanent teeth (measured via the Decayed Missing Filled Teeth Index) than children with lower BMI (overall mean difference, -0.42; 95%CI, -0.74, -0.11).

CONCLUSION

Whether there is an association between poor oral health and high BMI is inconclusive; however, both co-exist among Mexican children. Therefore, health promotion and prevention efforts should address common risk factors and broader risk social determinants shared between noncommunicable diseases.

Association of Oral Health Conditions in Adolescents with Social Factors and Obesity

This study aimed to investigate associations between psychosocial factors, obesity, and oral health in a study population of 10- to 18-year-old adolescents who participated in the LIFE Child study. Psychosocial information (socioeconomic status (SES) based on parents’ education, occupation and household income, Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), health-related quality of life) and physical activity behavior were obtained. Nutritional status was classified based on age- and sex-adjusted body mass index into underweight, overweight, normal weight and obese. Clinical dental examinations were performed and scored with respect to caries experience (CE), oral hygiene (OH), and periodontal status (periodontal health score: PERIO-S). Age-adjusted regression analysis under the assumption of a double Poisson distribution was performed with and without adjusting for SES (α = 5%). A total of 1158 study participants (590 girls, 568 boys; mean age 13.2 ± 2.3 years) were included (17.2% were classified as obese). CE was 20% higher for moderate and 60% higher for low SES compared to high SES (p < 0.05). PERIO-S was 10% higher for moderate and 30% higher for low compared to high SES (p < 0.05). Poor OH was associated with higher CE (Ratio R = 2.3, p < 0.0001) and PERIO-S (R = 3.1, p < 0.0001). Physical activity in a sports club was associated with lower CE-S and PERIO-S (R = 0.85, p < 0.001). Obesity was associated with increased CE (R = 1.3, p < 0.001) compared to normal weight. For low but not high SES, more reported difficulties were associated with higher CE. In conclusion, low SES, poor OH, and obesity are associated with unfavorable oral health conditions, whereas physical activity and high SES are potentially protective.

Body mass index and dental caries in New Zealand pre-school children: A population-based study

AIM

Pre-school dental caries is a significant public health problem and may be associated with the growth and nutritional status of children. This study aimed to investigate the association between body mass index (BMI) and early childhood caries (ECC) among pre-school children.

METHODS

This population-based retrospective study involves all 5-year-old children who resided in northern New Zealand and received school entry dental examinations between 1 January 2014 and 31 December 2015. ECC status was determined with the decayed missing filled teeth (dmft) score obtained from a routinely collected regional dental data set. Objectively measured BMI information was obtained from the 'Before School Check' (B4SC) Programme. Logistic regression analyses were used to assess the association between BMI and the occurrence of ECC (dmft score ≥ 1). Ethnic subgroup analyses were also conducted.

RESULTS

Of the 27 333 children involved in this analysis, 11 173 (40.9%) had ECC with a mean dmft score of 1.85, and 3948 (14.4%) were overweight and 2964 (10.8%) were obese at school entry. The prevalence of ECC was higher in overweight and obese children but in subgroup analyses by ethnicity, this positive association was observed in European children only (adjusted odds ratio for overweight children compared to normal weight children: 1.16; 95% CI: 1.02, 1.32 and adjusted odds ratio for obese children: 1.20; 95% CI: 1.00, 1.45).

CONCLUSION

ECC is highly prevalent in New Zealand children and associated with higher BMI in children of European ethnicity.

Dental caries prevalence among elementary school students and its relationship with body mass index and oral hygiene in Ardabil in 2019

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Tooth decay as a significant but preventable public health priority continues to be a common disease in developing countries, including Iran, which is particularly prevalent among children. The present study aims to determine dental caries prevalence among elementary school students and its relationship with body mass index and oral hygiene in Ardabil, Iran in 2019.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 581 elementary school students selected through cluster random sampling method in Ardabil city in 2019. Demographic data was collected using questionnaire and anthropometric indices (height, weight) were measured using the weighing scale and stadiometer, and dental caries was evaluated using the decayed, missing, or filled teeth index (dmft for primary teeth and DMFT for permanent).

RESULTS

The mean age of students was 9.61 ± 1.76 years, and 50.8% of them were female. 20.7% (n = 120) were obese, and 19.1% (n = 111) were overweight. The overall prevalence of caries was 74.9% (n = 435) in primary teeth, 72.8% (n = 423) in permanent teeth, and 96.6% (n = 561) in all teeth. The average dmft and DMFT scores were 4.16 ± 3.72 and 1.96 ± 1.76, respectively. There was a significant inverse relationship between body mass index and dmft (r = -0.146, P < 0.0001) and DMFT (r = -0.111, P = 0.004).

CONCLUSION

The findings showed that prevalence of dental caries in elementary school children in Ardabil city is higher than global standards, obese and over-weight children experience fewer caries compared to normal-weight children, and there is a significant relation between not brushing the teeth and dental caries.

Dental Caries Severity and Nutritional Status of Nigerian Preschool Children

INTRODUCTION

Malnutrition in children is one of the most prevalent global health challenges, and malnourished children have a higher risk of death from childhood diseases. Early childhood caries (ECC) is the most common chronic disease of childhood. Complications from ECC such as pain, loss of tooth/teeth, and infection can undermine a child's nutrition and growth.

AIM

This study aims to evaluate the severity of decay, missing, and filled tooth (dmft) by nutritional status using the z scores of the anthropometric measurements: height for age (HFA), weight for age (WFA), weight for height (WFH), and body mass index for age (BMIA) among children with ECC in Nigeria.

STUDY DESIGN

This is a cross-sectional study conducted in 5 local government areas (LGAs) in Lagos State, Nigeria. A multistage sampling technique was used.

RESULTS

A total of 273 cases of ECC were included in the analyses (mean age 4.19 ± 0.96 y). Overall, the mean dmft was 3.04 ± 2.28, and most (96%) were accounted for by untreated decay. The distribution of dmft within the different z score categories of BMIA (<-3 = severely wasted, -2 to -3 = wasted, -2 to +2 = normal, +2 to +3 = overweight and >+3 = obese) showed the highest dmft scores among the combined severely wasted and wasted groups, lowest among children with normal z scores, and intermediate in the overweight and obese groups. There was a significant negative correlation between BMIA z score, WFH z score, and dmft (r = -0.181, P < 0.05 and r = -0.143, P < 0.05, respectively). However, the correlations between HFA z score, WFA z score, and dmft were positive but not significant (r = 0.048, P = 0.44 and r = 0.022, P = 0.77, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Our study showed an increased severity of dental caries among severely wasted or wasted children with ECC compared to those of normal or overweight.

KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER STATEMENT

The results from this study will raise awareness among clinicians and policy makers on the need for a primary prevention program for early childhood caries in countries with high burden of malnutrition and limited resources. Also, it will help draw the attention of clinicians to the caries status of malnourished children that can be managed to improve the nutritional outcomes.

Common social determinants for overweight and obesity, and dental caries among adolescents in Northern Norway: a cross-sectional study from the Tromsø Study Fit Futures cohort

BACKGROUND

Non-communicable general and oral health conditions share common risk factors. Studies investigating common social determinants as risk factors for overweight/obesity and dental caries among the same adolescents are scarce and inconclusive.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included data from 464 girls and 494 boys from the population-based Tromsø study Fit Futures, which included first-year students attending upper secondary school in 2010-2011 from two municipalities in Northern Norway (1038 participants in total, 93% participation rate). Multivariable binary logistic regression analyses stratified by sex were used to investigate the association between socioeconomic position indicators (adolescent's own study program, parents' education and employment status) and overweight/obesity indicated by body weight and waist circumference, untreated dental caries in dentine, and when these conditions were considered simultaneously.

RESULTS

Boys enrolled in the general studies and sports programs (versus vocational) had lower odds of being overweight/obese (POR 0.42, 95% CI 0.20-0.86 and POR 0.24, 95% CI 0.08-0.73, respectively), of having high waist circumference (POR 0.39, 95% CI 0.21-0.75 and POR 0.25, 95% CI 0.10-0.64, respectively), dental caries (POR 0.57, 95% CI 0.32-0.99 and POR 0.47, 95% CI 0.22-0.98, respectively), and being simultaneously overweight/obese, having high waist circumference and dental caries (POR 0.24, 95% CI 0.07-0.81 and POR 0.11, 95% CI 0.01-0.98, respectively). Girls enrolled in the general studies program (versus vocational) had lower odds of having dental caries (POR 0.50, 95% CI 0.30-0.84).

CONCLUSIONS

Adolescent's own study program was identified to be a common social determinant for overweight/obesity and dental caries among boys. These results support the broader concept of social determinants as common risk factors for general and oral health conditions, and call for common health promotion strategies addressing these common social determinants among adolescents. However, there is a need for more studies to investigate and better understand the influence of social determinants on health conditions among adolescents.

Associations between obesity, dental caries, erosive tooth wear and periodontal disease in adolescents: a case-control study

PURPOSE

To compare oral health [dental caries, periodontal status, and erosive tooth wear (ETW)], diet and oral hygiene habits between obese and normal weight adolescents, and to explore possible risk associations.

METHODS

In this case-control study, a convenience sample of 71 obese adolescents (age range 11-18) from a rehabilitation centre, and 54 age-sex-matched normal weight adolescents were selected for this study. Groups were defined using the Body Mass Index and growth curves for Flemish adolescents. Oral health was measured using DMFT, gingival, plaque and BEWE index. A validated questionnaire was utilized to assess diet and oral hygiene habits. Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare oral health between groups. Multivariate Firth's logistic regression analysis, conditional regression analysis and classification trees were used to detect associations between oral health and potential risk factors.

RESULTS

Prevalence of ETW did not differ significantly between groups, although obese adolescents presented a significantly higher caries experience, gingivitis, presence of plaque and periodontal problems, compared to normal weight adolescents. After adjusting for age and sex, obesity was associated only with the presence of dental plaque (p ≤ 0.001). Obese participants reported a significantly higher intake of sugar-rich and caloric food items than normal weight group. The consumption of acidic drinks, however, was similar.

CONCLUSION

Obese adolescents presented significantly higher caries experience, gingivitis and plaque, although after adjusting, obesity became significantly associated only with the presence of dental plaque.

Beverage Intakes and Toothbrushing During Childhood Are Associated With Caries at Age 17 Years

BACKGROUND

Sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) have been associated with childhood caries; however, associations among lifelong beverage intakes and adolescent caries have received less attention.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate associations between beverage intakes during childhood and adolescence and caries experience at 17 years of age, while adjusting for fluoride intakes and toothbrushing.

DESIGN

Descriptive model analyses were conducted on data collected from a longitudinal birth cohort study.

PARTICIPANTS/SETTING

Participants included Iowa Fluoride Study members (n = 318) recruited at birth between 1992 and 1995 with at least 6 beverage questionnaires completed from ages 1 to 17 years and a caries examination at age 17.

EXPOSURE

Predictors included mean daily milk, juice (100% juice and juice drinks before age 9), SSB (including juice drinks after age 9), and water/sugar-free beverage (SFB) intakes; daily fluoride intakes; and daily toothbrushing frequencies for ages 1 to 17.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The outcome was dental caries count at age 17, adjusted for the number of scored tooth surfaces (decayed and filled surfaces attack rate [DFSAR]).

STATISTICAL ANALYSES PERFORMED

Univariable generalized linear models were fit for each predictor and the outcome DFSAR. Multivariable models assessed combined effects of beverage types, fluoride variables, toothbrushing, sex, and baseline socioeconomic status.

RESULTS

Based on multivariable models, each 8 oz of additional daily juice and water/SFB decreased expected DFSAR by 53% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 17%-73%) and 29% (95% CI: 7%-46%), respectively, and 8 additional oz SSBs increased expected DFSAR by 42% (95% CI: 5%-92%), after adjustment for other beverage intakes, toothbrushing, total fluoride intake excluding SSB fluoride (non-SSB total fluoride), sex, and baseline socioeconomic status. Each additional daily toothbrushing event decreased expected DFSAR by 43% (95% CI: 14%-62%) after adjustment for beverage intakes, non-SSB total fluoride intake, sex, and baseline SES.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher juice and water/SFB intakes and more toothbrushing were associated with lower caries at age 17, while higher SSB intakes were associated with higher caries.

The association of body mass index and severe early childhood caries in young children in Winnipeg, Manitoba: A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Associations between body mass index (BMI) and caries have been reported.

AIM

To evaluate the direction of the relationship between BMI and severe early childhood caries (S-ECC).

DESIGN

Children were recruited as part of a larger prospective cohort study assessing changes in nutritional status following dental rehabilitation under general anaesthetic. Pre-operative anthropometric measurements were used to calculate BMI z-scores (BMIz). Operative reports were reviewed to calculate caries scores based on treatment rendered. Analysis included descriptive statistics, bivariate analyses, and simple and multiple linear regression.

RESULTS

Overall, 150 children were recruited with a mean age of 47.7 ± 14.2 (SD) months; 52% female. Over 42% were at risk for overweight, overweight or obese. Although simple linear regression demonstrated a significant positive association between dmfs score and BMIz, adjusted multiple linear regression found no significant relationship between BMIz and dmfs, but highlighted a relationship between BMI z-score and family income, Registered First Nations Status and physical activity.

CONCLUSIONS

Although a significant relationship between BMI and S-ECC was not found, poverty was a key confounding variable. As both S-ECC and obesity are known predictors of future disease, it is important for healthcare professionals to identify children at risk. Diet and behaviour modification may play a role in disease prevention.

Dental Caries and Its Association with Body Mass Index among School Children of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Background:

Few studies have investigated the relationship of dental caries with obesity among Saudi Arabian population. Hence, this study was conducted to assess the association of obesity with dental caries among school children.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted among 12- and 15-year-old government school children of Riyadh. A total of 2247 children were examined from 24 schools of Riyadh. Caries status (decayed, missing, and filled teeth [DMFT]) was recorded according to World Health Organization (WHO) Oral Health Survey 2013. Height and weight measurements were recorded after clinical examination. According to body mass index (BMI) percentiles, the children were classified as underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese. Chi-square test was used to find association between variables for categorical data. Mean ± standard deviation (SD) was calculated for continuous measurements and to find the difference between the groups unpaired t test/analysis of variance was used. A value of P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

Dental caries prevalence was 83.7% and mean DMFT was 5.31 ± 3.88 in the study population. A statistically significant difference was found for mean decayed, mean filled teeth, and overall mean DMFT between 12 and 15 years old (P < 0.001), but not for mean missing teeth (P = 0.137). There was no association between BMI categories and mean DMFT for both the age groups.

Conclusion:

The dental caries was found to be high among the study subjects compared to WHO norms. Older children had higher DMFT values than the younger children and there was no association between dental caries and BMI.

Factors Affecting Preventive Dental Treatment of Adolescents in Korea

We conducted a multilevel analysis to identify factors affecting adolescents’ preventive dental treatment experience in South Korea. We sampled 72,435 students who participated in the 9th Korea Youth Risk Behavior Web-based Survey. The individual-level variables were divided into demographic factors, socioeconomic factors, oral health behavioral factors, and oral symptom experience factors. The regional-level variables included oral health resources, rate of students receiving oral health education at school by region, social deprivation index, and the number of private educational institutions. A higher rate of receiving oral health education in school by region was associated with increased fluoride application (1.04 times, p = 0.003). However, the number of private educational institutes per 1000 people was negatively associated with fluoride application experienced by students (0.64 times, p = 0.039). Students underwent more scaling when there were more dentists per 10,000 individuals (1.14 times, p = 0.008) and less scaling in areas with a higher social deprivation index (0.88 times, p = 0.024). To increase the access to preventive care for oral diseases among adolescents, a preventive system should be established in schools, and a primary dental care system should be established through the cooperation of the government, private dental clinics, and schools.

The relationship between obesity and dental caries according to life style factors in schoolchildren: a case-control study

Objectives: To evaluate the association between obesity and dental caries in terms of life-style habits and socio-economic status in Turkish school children.Materials and methods: This case-control study was undertaken with 178 children aged 6-11 years in a Turkish government children's hospital. The case group consisted of 86 obese children who were categorized in ≥95 percentile according to the BMI. The control group consisted of 90 non-obese children that would not raise any doubts about the teeth disease. Data of demographic features and life-style habits were obtained by a questionnaire at the dental examination. Caries experience was measured with DMFT and dmft indices.Results: No difference was found between obesity and caries prevalence in primary dentition (p = .957); however, there was a statistically significant association in the permanent dentition (p = .002). Also, no differences were found in children with healthy natural teeth between the study groups according to education level, family income and food consumption during TV viewing in primary dentition (p = .297; p = .652; p = .023).Conclusions: It can be concluded that obesity appears to be not a possible risk factor for dental caries in primary dentition, but would be a probable endangerment in the permanent dentition.

The Socioeconomic Inequality in Increment of Caries and Growth among Chinese Children

BACKGROUND

This study aimed at assessing socioeconomic inequalities in the increment of dental caries and growth among preschool Chinese children, and to assess the best predictor of socioeconomic inequality for each of these conditions.

METHODS

This is a longitudinal population-based study. The sample data included preschool children living in three cities of the Liaoning Province, China. At baseline, 15 kindergartens with 1111 participants were included and dropped to 772 with a response rate of 70% at follow-up. Mean ages at baseline and follow-up were 50.82 and 60.55 months, respectively. Median follow-up time was 10.12 months. Data were collected through structured questionnaire, oral examination and anthropometric measurement. The questionnaire collected information on sex, age, family income, mother's education and children's dietary habits. The numbers of decayed, missing and filled teeth (DMFT) was used to indicate dental caries. Weight- and height-for-age z-scores were calculated using the WHO Growth Standard. Multilevel analysis was used to assess the association between baseline socioeconomic position and each of dental caries and child's growth.

RESULTS

Mother's education was negatively associated with increments of DMFT. Family income was not significantly associated with DMFT in the fully adjusted model. The association persisted after accounting for other socioeconomic and dietary factors. Higher income was positively related to an increase in the weight-for-age z-score. The relationship between income and changes in the height-for-age z-score was positive and significant in the second highest income group.

CONCLUSIONS

Mother's education appeared to be the strongest predictor of increments of dental caries. Only income was significantly associated with an increase in children's weight and height.

The Association between Reported Dental Pain Symptoms and Increased BMI in Indonesia: Evidence From The Indonesian Family Life Survey

Background:

Overweight/obesity remains one of the most important health issues. Not only due to the current health consequences but also because of its long-term effect. One of the most common health problems experienced by an individual with overweight/obesity is dental problem, which can be reflected from dental pain being complained.

Objective:

The objective of the current study was to evaluate the association of overweight/obesity to be the predictor of the occurrence of dental pain.

Methods:

Data from the Indonesian Family Life Survey (IFLS) from five consecutive survey waves (1993, 1997, 2000, 2007 and 2014) that involved more than 30.000 participants and their offsprings that were grouped into three different age categories (0-4.9 years old; 5-19.9 years old; and 20-49.9 years old) were gathered and analyzed for Odds Ratio (OR) and Confidence Interval (CI). Trends of childhood overweight/obesity, the occurrence of dental pain, as well as the likelihood of individuals with childhood overweight/obesity to develop dental pain were analyzed by using STATA Data Analysis and Statistical Software version 13.

Results:

The results of the current study revealed that all age groups exhibited an increase in numbers when it comes to the prevalence of overweight/obesity from the first wave (in 1993) up to the latest wave (in 2014). It was also revealed that those who were in the 0-4.9 years old age group, were those who were more likely to develop dental pain (OR:1.12; 95% CI: 0.84-1.5; p:0.44).

Conclusion:

Despite the wave to wave variation, overweight/obesity has the potential to be associated with future dental problems, with dental pain in particular.

Obesity and dental caries in early childhood: A systematic review and meta-analyses

Obesity and dental caries in children are significant health problems. The aims of this review are to identify whether children aged 6 years and younger with overweight and/or obesity have higher dental caries experience compared with children with normal weight and, secondly, to identify the common risk factors associated with both conditions. Medline, Embase, and seven other databases were systematically searched followed by lateral searches from reference lists, grey literature, theses, conference proceedings, and contacting field experts. Longitudinal observational studies addressing overweight and/or obesity and dental caries in children aged 6 years and younger were included. A random effects model meta-analyses were applied. Nine studies were included in this review. Children with overweight and obesity had a significantly higher dental caries experience compared with children with normal weight (n = 6). The pooled estimates showed that difference in caries experience between the two groups was statistically significant. Low levels of parental income and education were identified to be associated with both conditions in the sample population. Children with overweight and obesity are more vulnerable to dental caries. Low levels of parental income and education influence the relationship between the two conditions. However, the quality of evidence varied considerably; therefore, findings should be interpreted cautiously.

Association between overweight, obesity and incidence of advanced dental caries in South Korean adults: A 10-year nationwide population-based observational study

The objective of this study was to evaluate the association between overweight, obesity and the incidence of advanced dental caries in South Korean adults, using alternate measures. The participants included 376,077 people aged 20 years and older who had health examination at least one time between 2005 and 2008. This evaluation is based on a change of body mass index (BMI) category, for 10 years, using a nationally representative data resource available from the National Health Insurance System. Instead of using decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT), the diagnostic codes which indicate dental caries, pulpal disease and visiting frequency at dental health professionals were used in this case. A multivariate adjusted Cox regression analysis was performed to examine the association between advanced dental caries and BMI. In addition to the BMI, a multivariate analysis of gender, age, lifestyle behaviors and systemic disease information was included. To this end, the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated. Chiefly, it is noted that the overweight and obese people were more likely to develop advanced dental caries independent of the noted variables. The positive association between high BMI and incidence of advanced dental caries was more prominent in the population's characteristic of people who were in a classification of the elderly and women. Among the health and lifecycle behaviors, smoking or not was found to be one of the factors affecting the results. The alternate method used in this study showed that being overweight and obesity had a direct association with the incidence of advanced dental caries in Korean adults.

Socioeconomic Factors and Oral Health-Related Behaviours Associated with Dental Caries in Preschool Children from Central Italy (Province of Ascoli Piceno)

Background

Dental caries is a serious oral health concern with high prevalence in preschool children.

Aim

To assess the association among oral health-related behaviors, socioeconomic factors, and dental caries in Italian preschool children.

Design

513 preschool children from 3 to 6 years of age, enrolled in nursery schools in central Italy, represent the population of the present study. The children underwent dental clinical examination and were divided on the basis of their caries experience in the primary dentition (“Yes” or “No”). Nonparametric analysis and univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were applied to evaluate the contribution of oral health-related behaviors and socioeconomic factors to the caries experience in the primary dentition.

Results

419 children were caries free, and 94 children had caries experience in the primary dentition, corresponding to the 18.4% of participants. Different oral health-related behaviors and socioeconomic factors resulted to be associated with caries development. In particular, the mother's foreign nationality results in a strong predictive factor.

Conclusions

The multivariate logistic model revealed factors significantly affecting caries experience in the primary dentition, which were the mother's nationality, the number of dental visits in a year, and the personal impression by the mother.

Prevalence of dental caries and its association with body mass index among school-age children in Shenzhen, China

Background

Dental caries and overweight/obesity are health problems with shared risk factors, but the relationships between caries and BMI need to be further explored. The objective was to evaluate the current status of dental caries and the association between dental caries and Body Mass Index (BMI) among primary and secondary school students in Shenzhen, China, during the 2016–2017 academic year.

Methods

A population-based, cross-sectional study that enrolled a total of 1,196,004 students was conducted in Shenzhen. Physical and dental examinations were given to all primary and secondary school students by certified physicians and dentists following the national specification for student health examinations, and dental caries was diagnosed using WHO criteria. Descriptive analysis was applied to assess current oral health status and a multifactorial, logistic regression model was employed to evaluate the relationship between dental caries and obesity.

Results

A total of 1,196,004 students participated in the census. Mean age of the participants was 10.3 years, ranging from 6 to 20 years. The prevalence of dental caries was 41.15% in the present study, which was higher among girls (42.88%) than that in boys (39.77%) with a p-value of < 0.001. Students in public schools showed a significantly lower (p < 0.001) caries prevalence (37.36%) compared with those in private schools (47.96%). The caries restoration rate of students in Shenzhen was only 10.30%, which means only one out of ten students with caries received restorations. The mean dmft and DMFT scores were 0.97 and 0.33, respectively. More girls (10.96%) had their teeth filled than boys (9.78%). The restoration rate was higher (p < 0.001) in public schools (11.73%) than in private ones (8.35%). Children who were overweight or obese had a lower risk of experiencing caries compared to those who were within a normal weight (OR = 0.74/0.64). Caries was inversely associated with BMI among primary and secondary school students in Shenzhen.

Conclusions

The prevalence of dental caries among primary and secondary school children was found to be related to sex, type of schools, region, and BMI. Further studies and more government support are required to confirm the findings of this study and to address current oral health problems.

Detection of dental plaque with disclosing agents in the context of preventive oral hygiene training programs

No studies have evaluated the relationship between the detection points for dental bacterial plaque (DBP or biofilm) and gender, age, socioeconomic status, body mass index (BMI), and oral health, hence the need to investigate and clarify their possible association. This study aimed to map out the occurrence of DBP, investigate and evaluate the factors affecting its localization, and design preventive interventions. The research was conducted on 588 public school children aged 4–18 years in a provincial area of Greece. The subjects’ oral health status and anthropometric characteristics were examined by a dentist (A.F.) and a dietitian (E.P.), respectively. To identify DBP, chewable double-staining disclosing tablets were used. The results of the present study indicate the following: (1) Age and socioeconomic status seem to be associated with DBP development, particularly in the oral cavity. (2) Overweight schoolchildren show more DBP on the upper posterior occlusal and upper posterior buccal surfaces compared to normal-weight children. (3) Moderate caries disease is associated with DBP detection on almost all tooth surfaces and especially on the tongue and lower anterior labial surface. (4) Severe caries disease is most strongly associated with DBP in the upper posterior palatal, lower posterior buccal, and lower posterior lingual spaces, as well as on the tongue. (5) Sex is the only variable without a significant impact on DBP detection surfaces. In conclusion, DBP identification in specific areas of the mouth seems to be influenced by age, socioeconomic level, BMI, and oral health. Gender has no influence on DBP detection points. Disclosing agents can be used in oral health prevention programs, both for more effective guidance on the use of oral hygiene tools and for their evaluation.

Oral health in children with sleep-disordered breathing: a cross-sectional study

Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is associated with a wide range of oral manifestations, including adeno-tonsillar hypertrophy, narrow dentoalveolar width, increased overjet, reduced overbite, and malocclusion. There are no studies about the relationship between SDB and poor oral health in the pediatric population. The aim of this study was to investigate oral health status and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in children at risk of SDB (SDB+), compared with a control group, not at risk for SDB (SDB). The current cross-sectional study recruited consecutive children, aged between 8 and 17 years, from a university-based dental clinic. Caregivers completed the Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire (PSQ) to stratify risk of SDB. Both children and caregivers completed the Child Oral Health Impact Profile (COHIP) to measure the OHRQoL. A dental exam was conducted to evaluate dental caries, periodontal status, oropharyngeal characteristics, and dental occlusion. DMFS (decay-missing-filled for permanent teeth), dmfs (for primary teeth), PPD (pocket probing depth), parent COHIP score, child COHIP score, and BOP (bleeding on probing) were compared between children SDB+ and SDB-. In this study, 122 children were enrolled and divided into two equal subgroups (61 each). There was a significant association between SDB and all six outcomes (all p < 0.05) with higher values in SDB+ children. SDB+ was associated with a poorer OHRQoL, and a greater COHIP score for both parents and children. In conclusion, the current study suggests that the impact of SDB on oral health and OHRQoL in children is relevant and far-reaching. Therefore, it is necessary to closely monitor the oral health of SDB+ children, and, if appropriate, to use gentle non-pharmacological treatments able to reduce nasal congestion.

Association between Dental Caries and Obesity in Children and Young People: A Narrative Review

OBJECTIVES

To explore the association between obesity and dental caries in children and adolescents. Furthermore, to consider the possible reasons behind this relationship.

METHODS

A database search for papers published between January 2015 and May 2018, inclusive, addressing the association between obesity and dental caries was conducted. A review and critical appraisal of all included studies was performed.

RESULTS

Twenty-six studies were included in this review from different populations worldwide. Eight studies assessed the primary dentition, nine studies were conducted on permanent dentition, and remaining nine studies on both dentitions. The results regarding the association between obesity and dental caries were conflicting and inconsistent. Nine studies concluded that there was no relationship between obesity and dental caries. A positive association was reported in five studies, while the inverse association was reported in eleven studies. Studies included in this review had significant variations in methodology and the investigated cofactors. Possible explanations of the controversial association between obesity and dental caries are discussed in this review.

CONCLUSION

Both obesity and dental caries are multifactorial diseases, and their association is far more complex that can be explained by a single common risk factor, presenting evidence for the complexity of this association.

Association between obesity/overweight and dental caries in psychiatric patients

BACKGROUND

Patients with psychiatric illness are more prone to develop obesity and dental caries due to general self-negligence associated with psychiatric illness and side effect of various medications used in psychiatry.

OBJECTIVE

Assess the association between dental caries status and obesity among resident patients.

DESIGN

Descriptive, cross-sectional.

SETTING

Mental health hospital.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A sample of psychiatric in-patients was recruited. Dental caries detection was performed according to the World Health Organization criteria and body mass index (BMI) was measured. Relationships were assessed using multivariable logistic regression.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Relationships between decayed, missing and filled teeth (DMFT) and obesity.

SAMPLE SIZE

223.

RESULTS

The sample included 126 males and 97 female with a mean (SD) age of 42.3 (2.2) years. The prevalence of dental caries was 92.6%. The mean (SD) DMFT score was 5.2 (4.2). Twenty-seven percent were schizophrenic, 21.9% had mental retardation and 19.7% had bipolar mood disorder. The mean (SD) BMI was 27.7 (6.3) kg/m². One hundred twenty-three (55.2%) of in-patients were classified as normal weight, 47 (21.1%) as overweight, and 45 (20.2%) as obese. The logistic regression model showed a strong association between caries and obesity/overweight (adjusted odds ratios=2.7; 95% CI=1.4 - 4.3, P<.001).

CONCLUSION

The present study demonstrated a significant association between the frequency of caries and obesity/overweight among resident patients at a psychiatric hospital.

LIMITATIONS

Since the data were cross-sectional, causal relationships cannot be established and the observed association could be due to other unexplored factors.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST

None.

Association between Dental Caries and Body Mass Index-for-Age among 10-12-Year-Old Female Students in Tehran

Introduction:

Dental caries and obesity are multifactorial diseases with diet being a common contributory factor. Many studies have reported varied outcomes about the association between dental caries and body mass index. But, there is no published study that investigates this association among female students in Tehran. The main aim of this study was to examine the relationship between dental caries and body mass index (BMI) in a sample of female students in Tehran.

Methods:

In this cross-sectional study, 416 students aged between 10 to 12 years was examined for dental caries using WHO standard diagnostic criteria. The Decayed, missing and filled of permanent teeth (DMFT) were recorded. The student's weight and height were measured by two trained examiner and their BMI were calculated. BMI-for-age and dental caries categories were analyzed with Pearson correlation coefficient, Chi-square, and t-tests using SPSS computer software.

Results:

The mean DMFT score and BMI of the study population was 1.03 ± 1.41 and 18.11 ± 3.33 respectively. The findings showed that 58.9% of the children had a normal weight, 27.9% were overweight, 10.3% were obese, and only 2.9% of the students were thin when they were compared with WHO standard of BMI for children with the same age. The respective mean DMFT values for BMI groups (thin, normal, overweight and obese) were 1.25, 0.73, 1.42, and 1.65, respectively. There was a significant association (P < 0.05) between dental caries and high BMI.

Conclusions:

This study demonstrated a significant association between caries frequency with high body mass index. For these reasons, the evaluation of nutritional status in students should be implemented in control programs for dental caries both on the community, schools, and individual levels.

The prevalence of dental caries among Egyptian children and adolescences and its association with age, socioeconomic status, dietary habits and other risk factors. A cross-sectional study

Background: Dental caries is a chronic, multifactorial disease, with limited data available for the Egyptian population. The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence of dental caries among Egyptian children and adolescents in correlation with age, gender, body mass index, socioeconomic status, parental education, biological risk factors and dietary habits.

Methods: A total number of 369 Egyptian children and adolescents (age ranges from 3-18 years) were examined over the period from 15 ^th November 2017 to 13 ^th January 2018. Socio-demographic data, oral hygiene measures and dietary habits for children were recorded. Dental status was analyzed using decayed, missing and filled tooth index (dmft) for deciduous dentition and (DMFT) index for permanent dentition. For mixed dentition (deft) index was used, d (decayed tooth indicated for filling), e (decayed tooth indicated for extraction) and f (filled tooth).

Results: 74% of the children had dental caries with mean dmft: 3.23±4.07; deft: 4.21±3.21; DMFT: 1.04±1.56. In primary dentition, dmft of the children was positively correlated with age, beans, candies, crackers, chocolates and inversely correlated with gender, socio-economic status (SES), parental education, brushing frequency of the parent, brushing frequency of the parent to the child teeth, brushing frequency of the child and consumption of eggs, fruits/vegetables, milk and milk products. In mixed dentition, deft was positively correlated with candies, crackers, citric juices, while negatively correlated with age, SES, parental education, brushing frequency of the parent to the child, brushing frequency of the child, fruits/vegetables. In permanent dentition, DMFT in children was positively correlated with age and chocolates while not correlated with any of the remaining risk factors.

Conclusion: The present study clarifies the significant risk factors associated with dental caries amongst Egyptian children. This will help in planning strategies to prevent and treat such disease.

Caries-related risk factors of obesity among 18-year-old adolescents in Hong Kong: a cross-sectional study nested in a cohort study

BACKGROUND

Socio-economic status, health awareness, and dietary habits have been reported as common risk factors of dental caries and obesity. The present study aimed to explore shared mediators between caries and obesity and to estimate the effects of caries-related factors on adiposity.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study among adolescents aged 18 years. The study was nested in a population-representative cohort of Chinese in Hong Kong. The number of decayed, missing, and filled permanent teeth (DMFT) was recorded during the oral examinations. Body Mass Index (BMI), Waist Circumference (WC), Waist-Hip-Ratio (WHR), Waist-Height-Ratio (WHtR), and Triceps Skinfold Thickness (TRSKF) were used as adiposity indices. Data on socio-economic status, oral health behavior (tooth brushing habit, use of fluoride toothpaste, dental flossing habit, and mouth rinse habit), and dietary record (frequency and amount of different food) were collected through self-completed questionnaires. Chi-square tests and binary logistic regressions were used for analysis.

RESULTS

Three hundred eighty-three participants were included. The mean (standard deviation, SD) of BMI, WC, WHR, WHtR, TRSKF, and DMFT were 21.26 (3.72), 69.11 (9.25), 0.77 (0.06), 0.42 (0.05), 15.72 (6.33), and 2.06 (2.43), respectively. Males were more likely to be overweight/obese than females. Various factors including gender, parental employment status, mouth rinse habit, frequency and amount of meat intake, frequency of oil intake, use of fluoride toothpaste, and DMFT were found significant (p < 0.05) in different final models of adiposity status.

CONCLUSIONS

More mediators should be included in future research to elucidate mechanism of the association between caries and obesity.

Association among chronotype, dietary behaviours, and caries experience in Brazilian adolescents: Is there a behavioural pattern?

BACKGROUND

Dental caries (DC) remains a public health issue. Chronotype, diet, and oral hygiene may influence its development.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association of chronotype, diet, oral hygiene, and DC among 12-year-olds.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study with 245 adolescents was conducted in public and private schools in southeast Brazil. Sociodemographics, dietary and oral hygiene habits were collected through a self-reported questionnaire. Chronotype was assessed using the Portuguese version of the Puberty and Phase Preference Scale (PPPS). Subjects were examined for DC (WHO criteria). Bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed (P < 0.05).

RESULTS

DC was present in 42.0% of the sample. In the bivariate analysis, a higher DMFT was associated with living in rural areas (P = 0.006), parents'/caregivers' lower schooling (P = 0.008), and a not daily intake of vegetables (P = 0.033). Chronotype was not associated with DMFT scores. The Poisson regression model showed that adolescents who did not have breakfast regularly (PR = 1.55; 95% CI = 1.17-2.08; P = 0.003), lived in rural areas (PR = 2.20; 95% CI = 1.59-3.04; P < 0.001) and did not consume vegetables daily (PR = 1.55; 95% CI = 1.11-2.17; P = 0.009) were more likely to present a higher DMFT.

CONCLUSIONS

DC is associated to living in rural areas and dietary habits, such as not having breakfast regularly and lack of daily intake of vegetables.

Odds ratios from logistic, geometric, Poisson, and negative binomial regression models

Background

The odds ratio (OR) is used as an important metric of comparison of two or more groups in many biomedical applications when the data measure the presence or absence of an event or represent the frequency of its occurrence. In the latter case, researchers often dichotomize the count data into binary form and apply the well-known logistic regression technique to estimate the OR. In the process of dichotomizing the data, however, information is lost about the underlying counts which can reduce the precision of inferences on the OR.

Methods

We propose analyzing the count data directly using regression models with the log odds link function. With this approach, the parameter estimates in the model have the exact same interpretation as in a logistic regression of the dichotomized data, yielding comparable estimates of the OR. We prove analytically, using the Fisher information matrix, that our approach produces more precise estimates of the OR than logistic regression of the dichotomized data. We also show the gains in precision using simulation studies and real-world datasets. We focus on three related distributions for count data: geometric, Poisson, and negative binomial.

Results

In simulation studies, confidence intervals for the OR were 56–65% as wide (geometric model), 75–79% as wide (Poisson model), and 61–69% as wide (negative binomial model) as the corresponding interval from a logistic regression produced by dichotomizing the data. When we analyzed existing datasets using our approach, we found that confidence intervals for the OR could be up to 64% shorter (36% as wide) compared to if the data had been dichotomized and analyzed using logistic regression.

Conclusions

More precise estimates of the OR can be obtained directly from the count data by using the log odds link function. This analytic approach is easy to implement in software packages that are capable of fitting generalized linear models or of maximizing user-defined likelihood functions.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12874-018-0568-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Socioeconomic Determinants, Maternal Health, and Caries in Young Children

Introduction

Maternal health during pregnancy plays a part in child health, and several conditions have been associated with adverse child outcomes.

Objectives

To determine the socioeconomic determinants and maternal health factors associated with dental caries in young children.

Methods

This cross-sectional study is part of a register-based cohort study including all children who were born from 2000 to 2003 and were residing in Stockholm County, Sweden, at age 3 y (n = 73,658). The study followed the cohort until individuals were 7 y old. The final study cohort comprised all children examined at 3 and 7 y (n = 65,259). Data on socioeconomic conditions, maternal health, and maternal health behavior were extracted from Swedish national registries. The multivariate analyses used 2 outcomes: caries experience at age 3 and 7 y (deft > 0 [decayed, extracted, and filled teeth]).

Results

The results of this study show that socioeconomic and maternal health behaviors during pregnancy are important determinants of oral health in their preschool offspring. When all significant risk factors were present, the cumulative probability of being diagnosed with dental caries at age 7 y was 75%.

Conclusion

This study also showed that maternal obesity and smoking during pregnancy were predictors of dental caries in preschool children. Strategies must be developed for increasing maternal motivation and self-efficacy and providing mothers with knowledge and caries-preventive tools.

Knowledge Transfer Statement

The results of this study inform clinicians about the importance of including a more detailed history regarding maternal health and maternal health behaviors during pregnancy to assess caries risk in preschool children. Education, income, and other socioeconomic factors are difficult to modify in the short term. Therefore, strategies must be developed to increase parental motivation and self-efficacy to give parents the determination, knowledge, and tools for prevention.

Evaluating the risk factors that link obesity and dental caries in 11-17-year-old school going children in the United Arab Emirates

OBJECTIVE

The objective is to study the effect of obesity on dental caries among schoolchildren in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The sample comprised 803, 11-17-year-old schoolchildren. The study was in the form of a randomized cross-sectional manner. Method used was two questioners. The first assessed socioeconomic and general health and the second detailed their demographic, oral hygiene, and dietary habits. Dental examination included dental caries assessment using the World Health Organization 1997 criteria and gingival health valuation. Clinical examination consisted of height, weight, and body mass index (BMI). Data analysis was done by descriptive, univariate, and multiple regressions.

RESULTS

In this sample, 75% had dental caries and the mean decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT) was 3.19 (standard deviation: 2.9). Obesity was seen in 15% of the adolescents and the mean BMI was 21. The link between DMFT and BMI, when evaluated using univariate analysis, showed a significant correlation (r = 0.097, P = 0.006), indicating that the rise in BMI by 10 points resulted in an increase in DMFT by 0.57. However, in the multivariate analysis, a significant relationship was observed only between father's education (P < 0.001), adolescent's age (P < 0.001), gender (P = 0.008), ethnicity (P = 0.001), and soft drink consumption with DMFT while BMI showed a significant association with age (P < 0.001), school fees (P = 0.005), obesity in family (P < 0.001), and soft drink consumption (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Obesity and dental caries were not significantly associated. The most important predictor for obesity and dental caries was soft drink consumption.

Inequalities in dental caries experience among 4-year-old New Zealand children

OBJECTIVES

To investigate ethnic-specific deprivation gradients in early childhood dental caries experience considering different domains of deprivation.

METHODS

We used cross-sectional near whole population-level data on 318 321 four-year-olds attending the "B4 School check," a national health and development check in New Zealand, across 6 fiscal years (2010/2011 to 2015/2016). The "lift the lip" screening tool was used to estimate experience of any caries and severe caries. We investigated deprivation gradients using the Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD), which measures seven domains of deprivation across 5958 geographical areas ("data zones"). Ethnicity was categorized into five groups: (i) Māori, (ii) Pacific, (iii) Asian, (iv) Middle Eastern, Latin American and African (MELAA) and (v) European & Other (combined). We used a random intercepts model to estimate mutually adjusted associations between deprivation, ethnicity, age, fiscal year, and evidence of any dental caries experience.

RESULTS

Reports of any caries experience decreased from 15.8% (95% CI: 15.7; 15.9%) to 14.7% 95% CI: 14.4; 14.8%), while reports of severe caries experience increased from 3.0% (95% CI: 3.0; 3.1%) to 4.4% (95% CI: 4.3; 4.5%) from 2010/2011 to 2015/2016. This varied by ethnicity with larger increases in severe caries for Pacific children from 7.1% (95% CI: 6.8; 7.4%) to 14.1% (95% CI: 13.7; 14.5%). There were deprivation gradients in dental caries experience with considerable variation by ethnicity and by domain of deprivation. The association between deprivation and dental caries experience was weakest for Asian children and was most pronounced for Pacific and Māori children.

CONCLUSION

Socioeconomic gradients in dental caries experience are evident by age 4 years, and these gradients vary by ethnicity and domain of deprivation.

Effect of body weight and behavioural factors on caries severity in Mexican rural and urban adolescents

OBJECTIVES

To investigate if, in Mexican adolescents, body weight and caries severity are associated, and if this association differs between rural and urban populations.

METHODS

Adolescents from the rural area of Tepancan and the city of Veracruz were enrolled. Caries was recorded using the International Caries Detection and Assessment System and the body mass index (BMI) was calculated. Oral habits (toothbrushing, flossing, dental check-ups) and dietary patterns (sweets intake) were assessed. A dummy variable between BMI and living area (BMI/Area) was generated. Data were analysed using STATA and a multinomial logistic regression model was run, using caries severity as the dependent variable.

RESULTS

Four-hundred and sixty-four subjects, 12-15 years of age, participated (rural = 240; urban = 224). The BMI and area of residence were significantly associated (χ² = 12.59, P < 0.01). Area was also associated with caries severity (χ² = 24.23, P < 0.01), with the highest number of caries in dentine recorded in participants from the rural area. The dummy variable BMI/Area was related to caries severity (χ² = 27.47, P < 0.01): overweight adolescents with caries in dentine were most frequently found in the rural area. A higher prevalence of caries in enamel and a lower prevalence of caries in dentine (P < 0.01) were recorded in adolescents from the urban area, where better oral habits, but higher sweets intake (P = 0.04), were encountered. According to the multinomial logistic regression model, BMI/Area was significantly associated with caries severity (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Overweight was not associated with caries severity in the overall population, but it became a statistically significant risk indicator in adolescents living in the rural area.

Association between body mass index and dental caries among special care female children in Makkah City

BACKGROUND

Dental caries and obesity are multifactorial diseases with diet being a common contributory factor.

OBJECTIVE

The main purpose of the present study was to investigate the association between dental caries and obesity among special care female school children in Makkah City, Saudi Arabia.

DESIGN

Analytical cross-sectional study.

SETTING

Special schools in Makkah City.

STUDY POPULATION AND METHODS

Schools were chosen by lottery and female children were ran.domly selected. Dental caries detection was performed according to the World Health Organization criteria. The medical evaluation assessed the body mass index (BMI).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

With appropriate sample weighting, relationships between dmft/DMFT (decayed, missing, filled teeth for deciduous and permanent dentition) and obesity were assessed using multilevel logistic regression.

RESULTS

In 275 special care children, the prevalence of dental caries was 56.7 percent. The mean dmft and DMFT scores for the entire study population were 3.9 (4.8) and 3.2 (4.1), respectively. Forty percent of children were mentally retarded, 22.2% presented with deafness, blindness or both, 18.9% presented with Down syndrome and 14.9% were autistic. From the total sample, the mean BMI was 20.2 (2.8). When adjusted for covariates, the logistic regression model showed strong association between caries and obesity (adjusted odds ratio=2.9; 95% CI=1.2-4.9).

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated a significant association between caries frequency and overweight/obesity in special care school children.

LIMITATIONS

Since the data was cross-sectional, causal relationships cannot be established and the observed association could be due to other unexplored factors. Because of cultural and ethical consideration, including segregation of gender in Saudi Arabia, only female children were included in the present study, which limited the findings.

Long-term effect of intensive prevention on dental health of primary school children by socioeconomic status

OBJECTIVES

Children in a German region took part in regular toothbrushing with fluoride gel during their time in primary school after having received a preventive program in kindergarten. The study aimed at determining the dental health of the students as a function of prevention in kindergarten and at school while taking into account their socioeconomic status and other confounders.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The subjects were in six groups: groups 1 and 2, intensive prevention in kindergarten with and without fluoride gel at school; groups 3 and 4, basic prevention in kindergarten with and without fluoride gel at school; groups 5 and 6, no organized prevention in kindergarten with and without fluoride gel at school. Two dental examinations were performed for assessing caries experience and calculating caries increment from second grade (7-year-olds) to fourth grade (9-year-olds). A standardized questionnaire was used to record independent variables. To compare caries scores and preventive measures of various subgroups, non-parametric tests and a binary logistic regression analysis were performed.

RESULTS

A significant difference was found in the mean decayed, missing, and filled tooth/teeth (DMFT) depending on socioeconomic status (no prevention in kindergarten, fluoride gel at school in children with low SES: DMFT = 0.47 vs. DMFT = 0.18 in children with high SES; p = 0.023). Class-specific differences were no longer visible among children who had taken part in an intensive preventive program combining daily supervised toothbrushing in kindergarten and application of fluoride gel in school.

CONCLUSIONS

Early prevention, focusing on professionally supported training of toothbrushing in kindergarten and at school, has a positive effect on dental health and is able to reduce class-specific differences in caries distribution.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Early training of toothbrushing and fissure sealing of first permanent molars are the most important factors for the dental health of primary school children.

Overweight, obese, underweight, and frequency of sugar consumption as risk indicators for early childhood caries in Brazilian preschool children

BACKGROUND

A possible association between being overweight or obese and early childhood caries (ECC) remains controversial.

AIM

To investigated this association in a developing country testing the confounding effects of socioeconomic factors and frequency of sugar consumption.

METHODS

Historical cohort study, 388 children (aged 24-71 months) living in São Luís, Brazil. A theoretical model adjusted according to income, birthweight, and nutritional status at twelve months and frequency of sugar consumption was generated with directed acyclic graphs to analyze this association. Caries were considered a discrete variable in the Poisson regression models; incidence density ratios (IRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were estimated.

RESULTS

Being overweight or obese (IR = 1.52; 95% CI: 1.03-2.22) was independently associated with ECC. Being thin or very thin (IR = 1.97; 95% CI: 1.52-2.54), a high frequency of sugar consumption (IR = 1.83; 95% CI: 1.42-2.38), and age (IR = 3.62; 95% CI: 2.58-5.08) were associated with ECC.

CONCLUSIONS

Children overweight or obese, as well as children exhibiting being thin/very thin, were associated with ECC independent of socioeconomic variables and a high frequency of sugar consumption.

Longitudinal Association between Obesity and Dental Caries in Adolescents

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the longitudinal association between obesity and dental caries among adolescents.

STUDY DESIGN

The present cohort study was conducted among a random sample of 12-year-old adolescents in Hong Kong. Two rounds of follow-up were performed when the participants were aged 15 and 18 years. A total of 668 participants were included at age 12 years, and 282 of them completed all 3 phases of data collection. Body mass index, waist circumference, waist-to-hip (WHR) ratio, waist-to-height ratio, and triceps skinfold thickness were measured as indices of obesity. Dental caries were assessed by the number of decayed, missing, and filled permanent teeth (DMFT).

RESULTS

The percentage of underweight adolescents increased significantly from 6.0% to 23.8% during the observation period (P <.001). Body mass index, waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, and waist-to-height ratio were related to frequency of tooth brushing at age 15 and 18 years. The prevalence of dental caries was 25.5%, 53.2%, and 62.1% at 12, 15 and 18 years, respectively. At age 18 years, mean DMFT of participants whose WHR at age 15 years was below the median value was 0.707 times (ie, 29.3%) lower than the DMFT of those whose WHR was above the median (P = .028). Participants with greater DMFT at age 15 demonstrated significantly increased probability of having WHR above the median (OR 1.135; 95% CI 1.01-1.28; P = .041) at age 18 years.

CONCLUSION

There is longitudinal association between central obesity and dental caries experience among adolescents aged 15-18 years.

Weight Status and Dental Problems in Early Childhood: Classification Tree Analysis of a National Cohort

A poor quality diet may be a common risk factor for both obesity and dental problems such as caries. The aim of this paper is to use classification tree analysis (CTA) to identify predictors of dental problems in a nationally representative cohort of Irish pre-school children. CTA was used to classify variables and describe interactions between multiple variables including socio-demographics, dietary intake, health-related behaviour, body mass index (BMI) and a dental problem. Data were derived from the second (2010/2011) wave of the 'Growing Up in Ireland' study (GUI) infant cohort at 3 years, n = 9793. The prevalence of dental problems was 5.0% (n = 493). The CTA model showed a sensitivity of 67% and specificity of 58.5% and overall correctly classified 59% of children. Ethnicity was the most significant predictor of dental problems followed by longstanding illness or disability, mother's BMI and household income. The highest prevalence of dental problems was among children who were obese or underweight with a longstanding illness and an overweight mother. Frequency of intake of some foods showed interactions with the target variable. Results from this research highlight the interconnectedness of weight status, dental problems and general health and reinforce the importance of adopting a common risk factor approach when dealing with prevention of these diseases.

Prevalence of obesity in elementary school children and its association with dental caries

Objectives

To investigate the prevalence of obesity among elementary school children and to examine the association between obesity and caries activity in the mixed dentition stage.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted in King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia between September 2014 and June 2015 using a multi-stage stratified sample of 915 elementary school children (482 boys, 433 girls) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Anthropometric measurements, consisting of height, weight, body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference (WC), were obtained. Children were classified as underweight/healthy, overweight, or obese and as non-obese or obese according to their BMI and WC, respectively. Each child’s caries experience was assessed using the decay score in the primary and permanent teeth.

Results

Based on BMI, 18% of children were obese, 18% were overweight, and 64% were underweight/normal. Based on WC, 16% of children were obese, and 84% were non-obese. Girls had a significantly higher prevalence of obesity based on WC measurements (p<0.001), but not BMI. Children enrolled in private schools had a significantly higher prevalence of obesity (p<0.05) than those in public schools. For primary and permanent teeth combined, children with higher BMI and WC had a lower prevalence of caries (p<0.05).

Conclusion

The prevalence of obesity was high among male and female elementary school children. Overall caries activity was inversely proportional to BMI and WC.

A scoping review of epidemiologic risk factors for pediatric obesity: Implications for future childhood obesity and dental caries prevention research

RESEARCH QUESTIONS

What are the non-modifiable (socioeconomic, genetic) and modifiable factors (physical activity, dietary behaviors) related to childhood (under age 12) obesity? How can this knowledge be applied to oral health professionals' efforts to prevent or manage dental caries in children?

OBJECTIVES

Studies have identified risk factors for childhood obesity. The purpose of this scoping review was to develop a conceptual model to identify non-modifiable and modifiable risk factors for childhood obesity and to illustrate how these findings are relevant in developing interventions aimed at preventing obesity and dental caries in children.

METHODS

The authors searched PubMed and Embase and limited the study to English-language publications. A total of 2,572 studies were identified. After de-duplication, 2,479 studies remained and were downloaded into a citation-management tool. Two authors screened the titles and abstracts for relevance. Two hundred and sixty studies remained and were retrieved for a full-text review, and 80 studies were excluded, resulting in 180 studies included in the scoping review. An inductive content analytic methods was used to organize all statistically significant obesity risk factors into seven domains, which were classified as non-modifiable or modifiable; then a conceptual model of common risk factors associated with childhood obesity and dental caries was developed.

RESULTS

Non-modifiable obesity risk factors include biological and developmental (e.g., genes, developmental conditions, puberty), sociodemographic and household (e.g., race/ethnicity, socioeconomic status, parent education, unemployment), cultural (e.g., degree of acculturation), and community (e.g., neighborhood composition). Modifiable risk factors included behavioral (e.g., diet, physical activity, weight), psychosocial (e.g., maternal stress, family functioning, parenting practices, child temperament), and medical (e.g., parent smoking, maternal health, child health).

CONCLUSIONS

Identifying common risk factors has important implications for future oral health research aimed at preventing childhood obesity and dental caries. Epidemiologic knowledge gleaned from the literature can be used to develop rigorous interventions and programs aimed at preventing these highly prevalent diseases and improving health outcomes for children.