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Wang X, Ghanbarzadegan A, Sohn W, Taylor E, Gao J, Christian B. Inequalities in dental caries among Indigenous and non-Indigenous children in Australia: A literature review. Aust Dent J 2024; 69:73-81. [PMID: 38197608 DOI: 10.1111/adj.13005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Dental caries constitutes one of the most ubiquitous diseases in Australia, with Indigenous children presenting a notably higher prevalence than their non-Indigenous peers. This literature review aims to update the knowledge base developed by Christian and Blinkhorn in 2012, with a particular focus on the contemporary disparities in dental caries between Indigenous and non-Indigenous children. Our research strategy involved a thorough exploration of the Medline, PubMed, and Scopus databases to identify pertinent studies published between 2009 and 2022. Supplementary resources included various government websites and citation searches. We prioritised studies that focused on children aged 5-6 or 12 years-reflecting the World Health Organization's index ages for oral health-and that reported dental caries prevalence and experience indicators. Our review methodology was guided by the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) statement. The updated search, spanning 2009 to 2023, retrieved studies that reported caries estimates exclusively from 2009 to 2014. Within this period, the prevalence of dental caries in Indigenous children's primary teeth ranged between 52% and 77%, while the prevalence in permanent teeth varied from 36% to 60%. This updated review indicated that Indigenous children continue to experience caries at an approximately twice higher rate than non-Indigenous children, sustaining the persisting disparity in caries estimates. The findings from this review show that no discernible improvement in dental caries rates among Australian Indigenous children has been observed in comparison to the previous review; and that Indigenous children continue to experience both higher prevalence and severity of dental caries compared to non-Indigenous children.
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Affiliation(s)
- X Wang
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - A Ghanbarzadegan
- School of Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - W Sohn
- School of Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - E Taylor
- School of Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - J Gao
- School of Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - B Christian
- School of Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Australian Centre for Integration of Oral Health, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Western Sydney University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Gunay B, Kaya MS, Ozgen IT, Guler EM, Kocyigit A. Evaluation of the relationship between pain inflammation due to dental caries and growth parameters in preschool children. Clin Oral Investig 2023:10.1007/s00784-023-04988-2. [PMID: 37036512 PMCID: PMC10088690 DOI: 10.1007/s00784-023-04988-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the relationship between pain inflammation due to dental caries and growth parameters, sleep disturbances, and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in preschool children before/after dental treatment and compare the results with the control group. MATERIALS AND METHODS Study (pain inflammation due to caries) and control groups were included in this prospective clinical trial. The Child Sleep Habits Questionnaire (CSHQ) assessing sleep disturbances and the Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale (ECOHIS) assessing OHRQoL were applied in the corresponding time intervals to the study and control groups, respectively: baseline (T0study), 7 days after treatment (T1study), and following 6 months (T2study); baseline (T0control), and the following 6 months (T2control). Biochemical growth parameters (insulin-like growth factor-1 and insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3) and anthropometric measurements (standard deviation score of height, weight, and body mass index) were obtained at T0study, T2study, and T0control. Mann-Whitney U and the Student t-tests were used for statistical analyses. The significance level was set at p < 0.05. RESULTS Data on 45 children (mean age: 55.6 ± 10.37 months) were analyzed. T2study was statistically higher than T0study for the anthropometric measurements and biochemical growth parameters (p < 0.05). T0study was statistically higher than T0control for biochemical growth parameters (p < 0.05). CSHQ and ECOHIS scores were found statistically significant at T0study than T0control (p < 0.05). Statistical scores of CSHQ and ECOHIS in T2study were significantly reduced compared to T0study (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION Children's growth parameters, sleep disturbances, and OHRQoL improved after the elimination of pain and inflammation. CLINICAL RELEVANCE This study's novelty is the observation of drastically increased growth parameters and reduced sleep disturbances following dental treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basak Gunay
- Department of Pedodontics, School of Dentistry, Bezmialem Vakif University, 34093, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Mustafa Sarp Kaya
- Department of Pedodontics, School of Dentistry, Bezmialem Vakif University, 34093, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ilker Tolga Ozgen
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Bezmialem Vakif University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Eray Metin Guler
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Hamidiye School of Medicine, University of Health Sciences Turkey, Istanbul, Turkey
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Haydarpasa Numune Health Application and Research Center, Hamidiye Faculty of Medicine, University of Health Sciences Turkey, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Abdurrahim Kocyigit
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Bezmialem Vakif University, Istanbul, Turkey
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Lienhart G, Thivichon-Prince B, Farge P, Schott-Pethelaz AM, Chaneliere M. What are health professionals' perceptions and attitudes regarding children with early childhood caries and their families? A qualitative research protocol to assess oral health stigma in the medical setting. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e066680. [PMID: 36455999 PMCID: PMC9716888 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-066680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Dental caries is one of the most common non-communicable diseases in children. The disease management of caries relies on both a preventive individual approach (fluoridation, risk evaluation) and the surgical treatment of established carious lesions. Similar to other non-communicable diseases (obesity, mental diseases, etc), health professionals' negative perceptions of patients have been shown to affect the quality of disease management. Regarding dental caries in children, some data have indicated the presence of discriminating beliefs and behaviours towards these children and their families in the medical setting. However, oral health stigma related to dental care remains a largely unexplored issue. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This study presents an exploratory research protocol focusing on the perceptions and attitudes of health professionals towards children with early childhood caries (ECC) and their parents. Semistructured interviews will be conducted among medical and dental health professionals, and verbatim quotations obtained from audio transcriptions will be analysed to identify health professionals' perceptions of ECC and the influence of these perceptions on clinical care for these children. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The research ethics committee of the Department of Family Medicine at University Lyon 1 approved this protocol. The results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at scientific meetings. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT05284279.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillemette Lienhart
- Paediatric Dentistry Department, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
- Health Services and Performance Research (HESPER-EA7425), Université Lyon 1 Faculté de Médecine Lyon-Est, Lyon, France
| | - Beatrice Thivichon-Prince
- Paediatric Dentistry Department, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
- Paediatric Dentistry Department, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
| | - Pierre Farge
- Health Services and Performance Research (HESPER-EA7425), Université Lyon 1 Faculté de Médecine Lyon-Est, Lyon, France
- Restorative Dentistry Department, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Anne-Marie Schott-Pethelaz
- Health Services and Performance Research (HESPER-EA7425), Université Lyon 1 Faculté de Médecine Lyon-Est, Lyon, France
- Public Health Department, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Marc Chaneliere
- Health Services and Performance Research (HESPER-EA7425), Université Lyon 1 Faculté de Médecine Lyon-Est, Lyon, France
- Family Practice Department, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France
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Guracho TT, Atomssa EM, Megersa OA, Tolossa T. Determinants of dental caries among adolescent patients attending Hospitals in West Wollega Zone, Western Ethiopia: A case-control study. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0260427. [PMID: 34855813 PMCID: PMC8639066 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0260427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dental caries is a prevalent disease in both developed and developing countries and is a public health problem among adolescents. This study aimed to assess the determinants of dental caries among adolescent patients in the west Wollega Zone, Western Ethiopia. METHODS A hospital-based unmatched case-control study design was conducted in West Wollega Zone, West Ethiopia. A total of 133 cases and 266 controls participated in this study. Data were collected using pre-tested questionnaires from three hospitals. Epi-info version 7 was used for data entry and was analyzed using SPSS version 20. Frequency, proportion, mean and standard deviation were computed to summarize the data. Statistics are presented using tables and bar graphs. Multivariable binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify the determinants of dental caries at P < 0.05. The adjusted odds ratio with 95% confidence interval (CI) was used to show the strength of association between the predictors and dental caries. RESULTS A total of 399 adolescents were enrolled in this study, yielding a response rate of 100%. The study found that, daily consumption of sugared coffee (AOR = 2.91, 95% CI:1.62, 5.23), khat chewing (AOR = 2.90, 95%CI: 1.46, 3.15), daily consumption of bread (AOR = 2.65, 95%CI: 1.44, 4.89), daily consumption of sweet foods (AOR = 2.04, 95%CI:1.19, 3.48), living in urban areas (AOR = 1.86, 95%CI:1.09, 3.15), and daily tooth brushing using toothpaste or stick (AOR = 0.48;95%CI, 0.28, 0.81) were significantly associated with dental caries among adolescents. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS In this study, drinking sugared coffee, daily consumption of bread, khat chewing, sugary food consumption, living in urban areas, and daily tooth brushing using toothpaste were significantly associated with dental caries. Therefore, improving dietary and drinking habits and strengthening regular tooth brushing are important for reducing dental caries among adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emiru Merdassa Atomssa
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Health Sciences, Wollega University, Nekemte, Ethiopia
| | - Obsa Amante Megersa
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Health Sciences, Wollega University, Nekemte, Ethiopia
| | - Tadesse Tolossa
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Health Sciences, Wollega University, Nekemte, Ethiopia
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Olatosi OO, Alade AA, Naicker T, Busch T, Oyapero A, Li M, Pape J, Olotu J, Awotoye W, Hassan M, Adeleke C, Adeyemo WL, Shaffer J, Marazita ML, Butali A. Dental Caries Severity and Nutritional Status of Nigerian Preschool Children. JDR Clin Trans Res 2021; 7:154-162. [PMID: 33764218 DOI: 10.1177/23800844211002108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- O O Olatosi
- Department of Child Dental Health, Faculty of Dental Sciences, College of Medicine University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - A A Alade
- Department of Oral Pathology, Radiology and Medicine, College of Dentistry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.,Iowa Institute of Oral Health Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.,Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - T Naicker
- Department of Paediatrics, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - T Busch
- Iowa Institute of Oral Health Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - A Oyapero
- Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Lagos State University College of Medicine, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - M Li
- Iowa Institute of Oral Health Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - J Pape
- Iowa Institute of Oral Health Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - J Olotu
- Department of Anatomy, University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt, Nigeria
| | - W Awotoye
- Department of Oral Pathology, Radiology and Medicine, College of Dentistry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.,Iowa Institute of Oral Health Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - M Hassan
- Iowa Institute of Oral Health Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - C Adeleke
- Iowa Institute of Oral Health Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - W L Adeyemo
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - J Shaffer
- Center for Craniofacial and Dental Genetics, Department of Oral Biology, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Department of Human Genetics, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - M L Marazita
- Center for Craniofacial and Dental Genetics, Department of Oral Biology, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Department of Human Genetics, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - A Butali
- Department of Oral Pathology, Radiology and Medicine, College of Dentistry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.,Iowa Institute of Oral Health Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
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Inglehart MR. Motivational Communication in Dental Practices: Prevention and Management of Caries over the Life Course. Dent Clin North Am 2019; 63:607-620. [PMID: 31470916 DOI: 10.1016/j.cden.2019.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Dental caries and periodontal diseases are preventable. Nevertheless, they remain prevalent. Dental practices offer an ideal setting for educating patients about oral health-related behavior change. This article describes the motivational communication approach to changing behavior and applies it to a discussion of behavior change communication over the course of life. CONTENT considerations focus on on identifying high-priority behaviors for change; patient affect, behavior, and cognition related to these behaviors, and understanding in which stage of change the patient is. Process the four principles of the Motivational Interviewing approach by Miller & Rollnick to analyze oral health-related behavior change over the life course.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marita R Inglehart
- Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine, University of Michigan, School of Dentistry, 1011 North University, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1078, USA; Department of Psychology, College of Literature, Science and Arts (LS&A), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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Shen A, Bernabé E, Sabbah W. The bidirectional relationship between weight, height and dental caries among preschool children in China. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0216227. [PMID: 31039199 PMCID: PMC6490928 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0216227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2018] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
There is evidence of a bidirectional association between dental caries and anthropometric measures among children. This dual relationship has not been examined in the same population. The objectives of this study are (1) to examine the relationship between baseline caries and changes in weight and height; and (2) to assess whether baseline weight and height are associated with changes in dental caries in a sample of preschool Chinese children. Children were recruited from 15 kindergarten in Liaoning Province at baseline (8 in rural area and 7 in urban area), a total of 1,111 of children were included at baseline. The mean age of children at baseline was 50.82 months. Data were collected through clinical oral examination, assessment of anthropometric measures and structured questionnaire. Dental caries was assessed according World Health Organization (WHO) methods by one dentist. Sociodemographic and behaviour data were also collected. At follow-up, 772 children were included (attrition rate: 30%), dental caries and anthropometric measures were assessed again. Z-score for weight-for-age and height-for-age were calculated using the 2006 and 2007 WHO Child Growth Standards. The sum of decayed, missing and filled primary teeth (dmft) were used in the analysis. Multilevel analysis for longitudinal data was conducted to explore the relationship between z-score for weight-for-age and height-for-age, and dental caries among children. The median follow-up time was 10.12 months. There was a significant negative association between dmft at baseline and change in height-for-age. On the other hand, weight-for-age at baseline was negatively associated with change in dmft at follow-up. The findings suggest that dental caries impedes children's growth indicated by height for age. Low weight children appear to be more susceptible to dental caries in the same population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anqi Shen
- Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Eduardo Bernabé
- Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Wael Sabbah
- Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
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Zhou Y, Jiang S, Li KY, Lo ECM, Gao X. Association between oral health and upper respiratory tract infection among children. Int Dent J 2017; 68:122-128. [PMID: 28905361 DOI: 10.1111/idj.12335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The oral cavity is a potential reservoir for respiratory pathogens. This longitudinal study investigated the association between upper respiratory tract infection (URI) and oral health among children. METHODS A total of 288 children aged 4 years were recruited. Their dental caries and oral hygiene status were clinically determined, using the dmft (decayed, missing and filled teeth) index and the Silness-Löe plaque index. Questionnaires were completed by parents to collect information on the child's socio-demographic background and URI episodes and symptoms in the following 12 months. Standard or zero-inflated negative binomial regressions were used to analyse the association between URI and both oral health indicators (dmft and plaque score). RESULTS Some 138 (47.9%) children had URI in 12 months, including 63 (21.9%) and 75 (26.0%) children with 1-2 episodes and ≥3 episodes, respectively. The reported URI episodes fell into two peaks, coinciding with the two influenza peaks in Hong Kong. Significantly a higher dmft was found among children without URI compared with children who had ≥3 URI episodes (1.32 vs. 0.49; P = 0.043). The number of URI episodes was inversely associated with dmft (IRR = 0.851; 95% CI: 0.766-0.945; P = 0.003). There was no significant association between the plaque score and URI (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS The children's caries experience was associated with reduced episodes of URI. Whether this inverse association is attributed to the immune response induced by dental caries is yet to be investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhou
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Health Sciences Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Shan Jiang
- Dental Public Health, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kar Yan Li
- Centralized Research Laboratories, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Edward Chin Man Lo
- Dental Public Health, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xiaoli Gao
- Dental Public Health, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Pitts NB, Zero DT, Marsh PD, Ekstrand K, Weintraub JA, Ramos-Gomez F, Tagami J, Twetman S, Tsakos G, Ismail A. Dental caries. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2017; 3:17030. [PMID: 28540937 DOI: 10.1038/nrdp.2017.30] [Citation(s) in RCA: 820] [Impact Index Per Article: 117.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Dental caries is a biofilm-mediated, sugar-driven, multifactorial, dynamic disease that results in the phasic demineralization and remineralization of dental hard tissues. Caries can occur throughout life, both in primary and permanent dentitions, and can damage the tooth crown and, in later life, exposed root surfaces. The balance between pathological and protective factors influences the initiation and progression of caries. This interplay between factors underpins the classification of individuals and groups into caries risk categories, allowing an increasingly tailored approach to care. Dental caries is an unevenly distributed, preventable disease with considerable economic and quality-of-life burdens. The daily use of fluoride toothpaste is seen as the main reason for the overall decline of caries worldwide over recent decades. This Primer aims to provide a global overview of caries, acknowledging the historical era dominated by restoration of tooth decay by surgical means, but focuses on current, progressive and more holistic long-term, patient-centred, tooth-preserving preventive care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nigel B Pitts
- Dental Innovation and Translation Centre, King's College London Dental Institute, Floor 17 Tower Wing, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond Road, London SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Domenick T Zero
- Department of Cariology Operative Dentistry and Dental Public Health, Oral Health Research Institute, Indiana University School of Dentistry, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Phil D Marsh
- Department of Oral Biology, School of Dentistry, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Kim Ekstrand
- Department of Odontology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jane A Weintraub
- Department of Dental Ecology, University of North Carolina School of Dentistry, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Francisco Ramos-Gomez
- UCLA Center Children's Oral Health - UCCOH and Section of Pediatric Dentistry, UCLA School of Dentistry, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Junji Tagami
- Cariology and Operative Dentistry, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Svante Twetman
- Department of Odontology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Georgios Tsakos
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, UCL, London, UK
| | - Amid Ismail
- Restorative Dentistry, Maurice H. Kornberg School of Dentistry, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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So M, Ellenikiotis YA, Husby HM, Paz CL, Seymour B, Sokal-Gutierrez K. Early Childhood Dental Caries, Mouth Pain, and Malnutrition in the Ecuadorian Amazon Region. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2017; 14:ijerph14050550. [PMID: 28531148 PMCID: PMC5452000 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph14050550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2017] [Revised: 05/13/2017] [Accepted: 05/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Malnutrition and dental caries in early childhood remain persistent and intertwined global health challenges, particularly for indigenous and geographically-remote populations. To examine the prevalence and associations between early childhood dental caries, parent-reported mouth pain and malnutrition in the Amazonian region of Ecuador, we conducted a cross-sectional study of the oral health and nutrition status of 1407 children from birth through age 6 in the "Alli Kiru" program (2011-2013). We used multivariate regression analysis to examine relationships between severe caries, parent-reported mouth pain measures, and nutritional status. The prevalence of dental caries was 65.4%, with 44.7% of children having deep or severe caries, and 33.8% reporting mouth pain. The number of decayed, missing and filled teeth (dmft) increased dramatically with age. Malnutrition was prevalent, with 35.9% of children stunted, 1.1% wasted, 7.4% underweight, and 6.8% overweight. As mouth pain increased in frequency, odds for severe caries increased. For each unit increase in mouth pain frequency interfering with sleeping, children had increased odds for being underweight (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR): 1.27; 95% CI: 1.02-1.54) and decreased odds for being overweight (AOR: 0.76; 95% CI: 0.58-0.97). This relationship was most pronounced among 3-6 year-olds. Early childhood caries, mouth pain and malnutrition were prevalent in this sample of young children. Parent-reported mouth pain was associated with severe caries, and mouth pain interfering with sleeping was predictive of poor nutritional status. We demonstrate the utility of a parsimonious parent-reported measure of mouth pain to predict young children's risk for severe early childhood caries and malnutrition, which has implications for community health interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marvin So
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 677 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | | | - Hannah M Husby
- University of California Los Angeles Fielding School of Public Health, 650 Charles E. Young Drive S., Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
| | | | - Brittany Seymour
- Department of Oral Health Policy and Epidemiology, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, 188 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Karen Sokal-Gutierrez
- University of California, Berkeley-University of California San Francisco Joint Medical Program, University of California, Berkeley School of Public Health, 570 University Hall, MC 1190, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA.
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11
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John JR, Mannan H, Nargundkar S, D'Souza M, Do LG, Arora A. Predictors of dental visits among primary school children in the rural Australian community of Lithgow. BMC Health Serv Res 2017; 17:264. [PMID: 28399864 PMCID: PMC5387289 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-017-2232-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2016] [Accepted: 04/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Regular dental attendance is significant in maintaining and improving children’s oral health and well-being. This study aims to determine the factors that predict and influence dental visits in primary school children residing in the rural community of Lithgow, New South Wales (NSW), Australia. Methods All six primary schools of Lithgow were approached to participate in a cross-sectional survey prior to implementing water fluoridation in 2014. Children aged 6–13 years (n = 667) were clinically examined for their oral health status and parents were requested to complete a questionnaire on fluoride history, diet, last dental visit, and socio-demographic characteristics. Multiple logistic regression analyses were employed to examine the independent predictors of a 6-monthly and a yearly dental visit. Results Overall, 53% of children visited a dentist within six months and 77% within twelve months. In multiple logistic regression analyses, age of the child and private health insurance coverage were significantly associated with both 6-monthly and twelve-month dental visits. In addition, each serve of chocolate consumption was significantly associated with a 27% higher odds (OR = 1.27, 95% CI: 1.05-1.54) of a 6-monthly dental visit. Conclusion It is imperative that the socio-demographic and dietary factors that influence child oral health must be effectively addressed when developing the oral health promotion policies to ensure better oral health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Rufus John
- School of Science and Health, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia
| | - Haider Mannan
- Centre for Health Research, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia
| | - Subrat Nargundkar
- School of Science and Health, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia
| | - Mario D'Souza
- Clinical Research Centre, Sydney Local Health District, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Loc Giang Do
- Australian Research Centre for Population Oral Health, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Amit Arora
- School of Science and Health, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia. .,Oral Health Services and Sydney Dental Hospital, Sydney Local Health District, Surry Hills, NSW, Australia. .,Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, Sydney Medical School, Westmead, NSW, Australia. .,Collaboration for Oral Health Outcomes Research, Translation, and Evaluation (COHORTE) Research Group, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Liverpool, NSW, Australia.
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Mufdi M, Núñez L, Ochoa JP, Mejía G. Relationship between overall child development and caries severity in Chilean three-year-old preschool children. JOURNAL OF ORAL RESEARCH 2016. [DOI: 10.17126/joralres.2016.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Dental problems in early childhood can have a very significant effect not only on the oral health of young children but on their quality of life and that of their families. Added to this are the long term risks they carry into the permanent dentition. AIM To review current literature on the management of early childhood caries and its influence on wider oral and general health. RESULTS Recent studies suggest that the risks for dental caries, periodontal disease, malocclusion and other general health problems including overweight and obesity may be increased in children who have had early childhood caries. Traditional restoration of damaged primary teeth has been shown to have only moderate outcomes depending on the techniques and materials used and the ability of children to cooperate because of age or other factors. CONCLUSIONS More recent interesting approaches that seal enamel caries, only partially remove carious dentine or attempt to entirely seal carious dentine lesions merit not only discussion but also longer term investigation. With increasing demands on health funding, dentistry must look at how the most appropriate care can be provided to allow children to reach adulthood with healthy permanent dentitions - something that less than half the population currently achieve.
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Alkarimi HA, Watt RG, Pikhart H, Sheiham A, Tsakos G. Dental caries and growth in school-age children. Pediatrics 2014; 133:e616-23. [PMID: 24534405 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2013-0846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Dental caries in young children is commonly untreated and represents a public health problem. Dental caries in children is reported to affect their anthropometric outcomes, but the evidence is conflicting. Some studies found no association, whereas others found that caries was associated with underweight or overweight. The objective was to assess the relationship between dental caries status and height and weight in 6- to 8-year-old Saudi children with high caries prevalence. METHODS This study was a cross-sectional survey in schoolchildren aged 6 to 8 years attending military primary schools in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Caries status was assessed by using the dmft (decayed, missing, filled, teeth [primary teeth]) index. Height and weight were assessed by using z scores of height-for-age (HAZ), weight-for-age (WAZ), and BMI-for-age (BAZ) calculated by World Health Organization standardized procedures. Relationships between caries and HAZ, WAZ, and BAZ were assessed by using regression models. RESULTS A total of 417 of the 436 eligible schoolchildren with complete data were included, with a response rate of 95.6%. Their mean dmft index was 5.7 ± 4.2. There was an inverse linear relationship between caries status and children's HAZ, WAZ, and BAZ and significantly lower anthropometric outcomes for children at each consecutive group with higher levels of caries. The associations remained significant after adjusting for dental, social, and demographic variables. CONCLUSIONS The inverse linear association between dental caries and all anthropometric outcomes suggests that higher levels of untreated caries are associated with poorer growth in Saudi schoolchildren.
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Relationship between Untreated Dental Caries and Weight and Height of 6- to 12-Year-Old Primary School Children in Bangladesh. Int J Dent 2013; 2013:629675. [PMID: 23690777 PMCID: PMC3639635 DOI: 10.1155/2013/629675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2012] [Revised: 03/12/2013] [Accepted: 03/20/2013] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background. Children in low-income developing countries are likely to suffer from undergrowth. Dental caries is another common problem in these countries. Aim. To examine the association between untreated dental caries in primary and permanent teeth with age-adjusted height and weight among 6-12-year-old children in Bangladesh. Design. Social, behavioural, and clinical data were collected from 1699 children in nine different randomly selected primary schools in socially deprived areas of Bangladesh. The associations of age-adjusted weight and height and being underweight with dental caries were examined adjusting for sex, area of residence, socioeconomic position, skipping meals, tooth cleaning, and doctor visits. Results. 26% of the children were underweight and 55% had untreated dental caries. Children with at least one decayed tooth were significantly underweight with odds ratios 1.6 (95% CI 1.1, 2.3) and 1.5 (95% CI 1.1, 2.0) for 6-8-years and 9-12-year-old children, respectively, in the adjusted model. The number of decayed teeth was inversely and significantly associated with the standardized age-adjusted weight. Conclusions. The findings highlight the association between untreated dental caries and being underweight in primary school children in socially deprived areas in low-income developing countries and emphasize the need to integrate oral and general health policies with social policies.
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Costa LR, Daher A, Queiroz MG. Early childhood caries and body mass index in young children from low income families. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2013; 10:867-78. [PMID: 23462435 PMCID: PMC3709291 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph10030867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2012] [Revised: 02/25/2013] [Accepted: 02/25/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The relationship between early childhood caries (ECC) and obesity is controversial. This cross-sectional survey investigated this association in children from low-income families in Goiania, Goias, Brazil and considered the role of several social determinants. A questionnaire examining the characteristics of the children and their families was administered to the primary caregiver during home visits. In addition, children (approximately 6 years of age) had their height, weight, and tooth condition assessed. The primary ECC outcome was categorized as one of the following: caries experience (decayed, missing, filled tooth: “dmft” index > 0), active ECC (decayed teeth > 0), or active severe ECC (decayed teeth ≥ 6). Descriptive, bivariate and logistic regression analyses were conducted. The participants in the current study consisted of 269 caregiver-child dyads, 88.5% of whom were included in the Family Health Program. Caregivers were mostly mothers (67.7%), were 35.3 ± 10.0 years old on average and had 9.8 ± 3.1 years of formal education. The mean family income was 2.3 ± 1.5 times greater than the Brazilian minimum wage. On average, the children in the current study were 68.7 ± 3.8 months old. Of these, 51.7% were boys, 23.4% were overweight or obese, 45.0% had active ECC, and 17.1% had severe ECC. The average body mass index (BMI) of the children was 15.9 ± 2.2, and their dmft index was 2.5 ± 3.2. BMI was not associated with any of the three categories of dental caries (p > 0.05). In contrast, higher family incomes were significantly associated with the lack of caries experience in children (OR 1.22, 95%CI 1.01–1.50), but the mother’s level of education was not significantly associated with ECC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciane Rezende Costa
- Department of Preventive and Restorative Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Federal University of Goias, Primeira Avenida, Setor Universitario, Goiania, GO 74605-220, Brazil
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: ; Tel.: +55-62-3209-6047; Fax: +55-62-3209-6325
| | - Anelise Daher
- Health Sciences Graduate Program, Federal University of Goias, Primeira Avenida, Setor Universitario, Goiania, GO 74605-220, Brazil; E-Mail:
| | - Maria Goretti Queiroz
- Department of Stomatological Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, Federal University of Goias, Primeira Avenida, Setor Universitario, Goiania, GO 74605-220, Brazil; E-Mail:
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Delgado-Angulo EK, Hobdell MH, Bernabé E. Childhood stunting and caries increment in permanent teeth: a three and a half year longitudinal study in Peru. Int J Paediatr Dent 2013; 23:101-9. [PMID: 22348529 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-263x.2012.01229.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Malnutrition has been consistently associated with caries in primary teeth, although an effect on permanent teeth has not been established because of the few longitudinal studies. AIM To explore the association between stunting and caries increment in permanent teeth over 3.5 years. DESIGN In 2003, 121 children aged 7-9 years were randomly selected from nine underserved communities in Lima (Peru). Parents provided demographic information and a food diary for their children. Clinical examinations included assessments of height, weight, oral hygiene, and dental caries. Stunting was defined using the 2000 CDC and 2007 WHO standards. In 2006, 83 children were re-examined, and the 3.5-year net DMFS increment was calculated. The association between stunting and net DMFS increment was assessed using negative binomial regression. RESULTS Stunting was related to net DMFS increment after adjustment for sex and age, oral hygiene, sugary snacks between meals, and caries experience in primary and permanent teeth. Consistent results were found when using either the 2000 CDC (incidence rate ratio: 1.61; 95%CI: 1.07, 2.44) or 2007 WHO standards (IRR: 1.79; 95%CI: 1.28, 2.51). CONCLUSION Stunting was a significant risk factor for caries increment in permanent teeth over a 3.5-year period, independent of other well-known risk factors for caries development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elsa K Delgado-Angulo
- Research Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London, London, UK.
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Hooley M, Skouteris H, Boganin C, Satur J, Kilpatrick N. Body mass index and dental caries in children and adolescents: a systematic review of literature published 2004 to 2011. Syst Rev 2012; 1:57. [PMID: 23171603 PMCID: PMC3621095 DOI: 10.1186/2046-4053-1-57] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2012] [Accepted: 10/09/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
THE OBJECTIVE The authors undertook an updated systematic review of the relationship between body mass index and dental caries in children and adolescents. METHOD The authors searched Medline, ISI, Cochrane, Scopus, Global Health and CINAHL databases and conducted lateral searches from reference lists for papers published from 2004 to 2011, inclusive. All empirical papers that tested associations between body mass index and dental caries in child and adolescent populations (aged 0 to 18 years) were included. RESULTS Dental caries is associated with both high and low body mass index. CONCLUSION A non-linear association between body mass index and dental caries may account for inconsistent findings in previous research. We recommend future research investigate the nature of the association between body mass index and dental caries in samples that include a full range of body mass index scores, and explore how factors such as socioeconomic status mediate the association between body mass index and dental caries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merrilyn Hooley
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, Melbourne, Victoria 3125, Australia.
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Association of dental caries and weight status in 6- to 7-year-old Filipino children. Clin Oral Investig 2012; 17:1515-23. [PMID: 23053701 DOI: 10.1007/s00784-012-0849-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2011] [Accepted: 09/18/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aims of the study were (1) to assess in 6- to 7-year-old Filipino children caries prevalence and experience and the weight status and (2) to investigate the association between dental caries and weight status. MATERIALS AND METHODS Dental and anthropometric examinations were conducted on 1,962 6- to 7-year-old children during the National Oral Health Survey in 2005-2006. Dental caries assessments were carried out using World Health Organisation (WHO) criteria (1997). Weight status was assessed with body mass index according to WHO growth reference. A multivariable logistic regression model was applied to investigate the effect of dental caries and sociodemographic variables on the children's weight status. RESULTS Caries prevalence was 96.8 % in primary and 39.7 % in permanent teeth, and caries experience was 8.4 dmft and 0.6 DMFT. Of the children, 17.8 % were underweight, 73.0 % had normalweight, 6.0 % were overweight and 3.2 % were obese. Girls had a lower risk of being underweight than boys odds ratios (OR) 0.70, confidence interval (CI) 0.55-0.88. Children living in rural areas and with no television at home were more likely to be underweight (OR 1.36, CI 1.07-1.72; OR 1.37, CI 1.07-1.76, respectively). Fewer primary and permanent teeth were risk factors for being underweight (OR 0.93, CI 0.92-0.95; OR 0.90, CI 0.89-0.94, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Underweight was associated stronger with demographic and socioeconomic conditions than with dental variables. However, underweight and dental caries are public health issues of high priority affecting children at an important phase of their development. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Definite conclusions upon an association between dental caries and weight status in high caries risk schoolchildren cannot be drawn.
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Monse B, Duijster D, Sheiham A, Grijalva-Eternod CS, van Palenstein Helderman W, Hobdell MH. The effects of extraction of pulpally involved primary teeth on weight, height and BMI in underweight Filipino children. A cluster randomized clinical trial. BMC Public Health 2012; 12:725. [PMID: 22938147 PMCID: PMC3490802 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-12-725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2012] [Accepted: 07/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Severe dental caries and the treatment thereof are reported to affect growth and well-being of young children. The objective of this study was to assess the effects of extraction of severely decayed pulpally involved primary teeth on weight and height in underweight preschool Filipino children. Methods Underweight preschool Filipino children with severe dental decay had their pulpally involved primary teeth extracted during a stepped wedge cluster randomized clinical trial. Day care centers were randomly divided into two groups; children from Group A day care centers received treatment as soon as practical, whereas children from Group B day care centers were treated four months after Group A. Clinical oral examinations using WHO criteria and the pufa-index were carried out. Anthropometric measurements were done on both groups immediately before treatment of Group A and at follow-up four months later. Height and weight z-scores were calculated using 2006 and 2007 WHO Growth Standards. Multilevel analysis was used to assess the effect of dental extractions on changes in anthropometric measurements after dental treatment. Results Data on 164 children (85 in Group A and 79 in Group B), mean age 59.9 months, were analyzed. Both groups gained weight and height during the trial period. Children in Group A significantly increased their BMI (p < 0.001), and their weight-for-age (p < 0.01) and BMI-for-age z-scores (p < 0.001) after dental treatment, whereas untreated children in Group B did not. Children in Group A had significantly more weight gain (p < 0.01) compared to untreated children in Group B. However, children in Group A had an inverse change in height gain (p < 0.001). Adjustment for the time interval between the two visits had little effect on the results. Conclusions The extraction of severely decayed primary teeth resulted in significant weight gain in underweight Filipino children. Untreated dental decay should be considered an important co-factor affecting child growth and should be considered when planning for interventions to improve child growth. Trial registration ISRCTN90779069 http://www.controlled-trials.com/isrctn/isrctn_loa
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Affiliation(s)
- Bella Monse
- Department of Preventive Dentistry, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam, Gustav Mahlerlaan 3004, Amsterdam, 1081LA, The Netherlands
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Alkarimi HA, Watt RG, Pikhart H, Jawadi AH, Sheiham A, Tsakos G. Impact of treating dental caries on schoolchildren's anthropometric, dental, satisfaction and appetite outcomes: a randomized controlled trial. BMC Public Health 2012; 12:706. [PMID: 22928903 PMCID: PMC3497873 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-12-706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2012] [Accepted: 08/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are no randomized controlled trials to assess the impact of treating dental caries on various aspects of children's health. This study was conducted to assess the impact of dental treatment of severe dental caries on children's weight, height and subjective health related outcomes, namely dental pain, satisfaction with teeth and smile, dental sepsis and child's appetite. METHODS The study was a community-based, randomized, controlled trial in schoolchildren aged 6-7 years with untreated dental caries. Participants were randomly assigned to early (test) or regular (control) dental treatment. The primary outcome was Weight-for-age Z-score. Secondary outcomes were Height-for-age and BMI-for-age Z-scores, dental pain, dental sepsis, satisfaction with teeth and child's appetite. RESULTS 86 children were randomly assigned to test (42 children) and control (44) groups. Mean duration of follow-up was 34.8 (± 1.1) weeks. There were insignificant improvements in anthropometric outcomes between the groups after treatment of caries. However, treated children had significantly less pain experience (P = 0.006) (OR 0.09, [0.01-0.51]) and higher satisfaction with teeth (P = 0.001) (OR 9.91, [2.68-36.51]) compared to controls. Controls had significantly poorer appetites (P = 0.01) (OR 2.9, [1.24-6.82]) compared to treated children. All treated children were free of clinical dental sepsis whereas 20% (9 of 44) of controls who were free of sepsis at baseline had sepsis at follow-up. CONCLUSIONS Although dental treatment did not significantly improve the anthropometric outcomes, it significantly improved the dental outcomes and children's satisfaction with teeth, smile and appetite. This is the first study to provide evidence that treatment of severe dental caries can improve children's appetite. TRIAL REGISTRATION Effect of Dental Treatment on Children's Growth. Clinical Trial Gov ID# NCT01243866.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heba A Alkarimi
- King Fahad Armed Forces Hospital, PO Box 54146, Jeddah 21514, Saudi Arabia.
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Benzian H, Monse B, Heinrich-Weltzien R, Hobdell M, Mulder J, van Palenstein Helderman W. Untreated severe dental decay: a neglected determinant of low Body Mass Index in 12-year-old Filipino children. BMC Public Health 2011; 11:558. [PMID: 21752286 PMCID: PMC3160376 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-11-558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2011] [Accepted: 07/13/2011] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Dental decay is the most common childhood disease worldwide and most of the decay remains untreated. In the Philippines caries levels are among the highest in the South East Asian region. Elementary school children suffer from high prevalence of stunting and underweight. The present study aimed to investigate the association between untreated dental decay and Body Mass Index (BMI) among 12-year-old Filipino children. Methods Data collection was part of the National Oral Health Survey, a representative cross-sectional study of 1951 11-13-year-old school children using a modified, stratified cluster sampling design based on population classifications of the Philippine National Statistics Office. Caries was scored according to WHO criteria (1997) and odontogenic infections using the PUFA index. Anthropometric measures were performed by trained nurses. Some socio-economic determinants were included as potential confounding factors. Results The overall prevalence of caries (DMFT + dmft > 0) was 82.3% (95%CI; 80.6%-84.0%). The overall prevalence of odontogenic infections due to caries (PUFA + pufa > 0) was 55.7% (95% CI; 53.5%-57.9%) The BMI of 27.1% (95%CI; 25.1%-29.1%) of children was below normal, 1% (95%CI; 0.5%-1.4%) had a BMI above normal. The regression coefficient between BMI and caries was highly significant (p < 0.001). Children with odontogenic infections (PUFA + pufa > 0) as compared to those without odontogenic infections had an increased risk of a below normal BMI (OR: 1.47; 95% CI: 1.19-1.80). Conclusions This is the first-ever representative survey showing a significant association between caries and BMI and particularly between odontogenic infections and below normal BMI. An expanded model of hypothesised associations is presented that includes progressed forms of dental decay as a significant, yet largely neglected determinant of poor child development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Habib Benzian
- Fit for School Inc, Salcedo Village, Makati City, Manila, Philippines.
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