Dental caries and associated factors among primary school children in Bahir Dar city: a cross-sectional study

Oral hygiene behaviour and its determinants among preparatory school students in Gondar city, Northwest Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to evaluate oral hygiene behaviour and its determinants among preparatory school students in Gondar city, Northwest Ethiopia.

METHODS

Institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 423 students to evaluate their oral hygiene behaviour and determinant factors (sociodemographic attributes, oral hygiene knowledge, and attitude to oral hygiene behaviours). Linear regression was employed to identify factors associated with oral hygiene behaviour. A p-value of <0.05 and a 95% confidence interval were used to declare statistical significance.

RESULTS

A total of 407 students participated with a response rate of 96.2%. The mean age of the participants was 18 (SD ±1.3). The mean oral hygiene behaviour (OHB) score was about 7.89 ± 3.43. Only 9.2%, 21.4%, and 5.7% were brushing their teeth at least twice a day, cleaning their tongue, and flossing at least once a day respectively. Father's educational status (able to read and write (β = 1.99, 95% CI: 0.62, 3.38), completed secondary school (β = 1.68, 95% CI: 0.18, 3.18), and diploma and higher (β = 1.75, 95% CI: 0.33, 3.18)), being from private school (β = 3.25, 95%CI: 2.30, 4.19), knowledge about OHB (β = 0.16, 95% CI: 0.01, 0.30), and attitude towards OHB (β = 0.11, 95% CI: 0.08, 0.14) were significant factors positively associated with better oral hygiene behaviour.

CONCLUSION

Oral hygiene behaviour was poor among preparatory school students in Gondar city. Father's educational status, students' oral hygiene knowledge, and attitude were found to be significant factors affecting students' oral hygiene behaviour. Thus, tailored school-based oral health communication programs are highly required to improve students' oral hygiene behaviour.

Comparative assessment of cleaning efficacy of two exclusive paediatric rotary files in root canals of primary teeth: An in vitro study

BACKGROUND

Paediatric rotary file systems have recently been developed for primary teeth use.

AIM

To study the cleaning efficacies of two paediatric rotary endodontic files, the Prime PedoTM , and the Kedo-SG BlueTM against the standard H files.

DESIGN

This in vitro study included 54 freshly extracted primary molars, which were randomised into three groups (n = 18 each) and were prepared using either Kedo-SG BlueTM , Prime PedoTM or hand H files after injecting methylene blue dye into the canals. Pre- and post-operative cone beam computerised tomography (CBCT) was performed to assess change in root canal volumes. Methylene blue dye removal from canals was assessed using stereomicroscopy, and canal cleanliness was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

RESULTS

Both Prime PedoTM and Kedo-SG BlueTM files reduced significantly less dentine when compared with conventional hand filing with Prime PedoTM removing the least amount of dentine. No significant difference was found in median SEM scores among the groups in the cervical, middle and apical thirds of the roots. Stereomicroscopic assessment of root canal cleanliness using dye removal technique shows a statistically significant difference existing between Kedo-SG BlueTM and hand H files groups.

CONCLUSION

Prime PedoTM removed the least amount of dentine. Kedo-SG BlueTM performed significantly better than conventional hand filing with H files when the root canal cleanliness was assessed.

Predictors of low dental service utilization among school children in Mekelle, Northern Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Dental service utilization is important for maintaining and enhancing children's oral health status. However, there is paucity of information regarding dental service utilization and factors affecting it among school aged children in Ethiopia.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to determine the dental service utilization and associated factors among school aged children (6-15) years in Mekelle city, Northern Ethiopia.

METHODS

A school-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Mekelle city of Northern Ethiopia from January 2016 to June 2016. A multi-stage sampling method was used to select 405 school children. A modified World Health Organization oral health assessment form for children was used to collect data. Univariate and multivariable logistic regressions with 95% CI were used to test the association between past-year dental service utilization, as an outcome variable, and parental socio-demographic, and child characteristics as independent variables.

RESULTS

A total of 398 school children participated in the study. The overall dental service utilization among these children was (10.6%), 95% Confidence Interval (CI) (7.5%, 13.6%). In multivariable logistic regression analysis, maternal educational status (illiterate versus college and above (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 0.13, 95% CI 0.01, 0.93)), higher monthly income (AOR 11.69, 95% CI 1.19, 114.61)), and having dental pain (AOR 50.8, 95% CI 17.8, 145.17)) were significantly associated with past year dental service utilization.

CONCLUSION

Our findings showed that a small proportion of the study population visited a dentist in the past year. Maternal educational status, monthly income, and dental pain were associated with past year dental service utilization. Oral health education programs focusing on dental service utilization targeting school children are crucial.

Clinical and Microbial Evaluation of Dental Caries Status and Associated Factors Among Primary Schoolchildren in Myanmar: A Cross-Sectional Study

The study aimed to investigate the prevalence and associated factors of dental caries on primary teeth and to evaluate the cariogenic bacteria in dental plaque and saliva among Myanmar schoolchildren. A cross-sectional study was undertaken among 264 schoolchildren from three primary schools in the urban area of Yangon city in 2019. Clinical oral examinations, caries risk tests, and questionnaire surveys were conducted. Overall caries prevalence was 84.1% with a mean decayed, missing, filled primary teeth (dmft) count of 5.84 ± 4.57. Children's caries experience and debris scores were significantly associated with their bacteria score level. Father's occupation was significantly associated with caries prevalence (P = .024) and dmft (P = .021). Father's occupation, snack types, habit of eating sweet food combinations, drink types, and debris score were five significant predictors of dental caries in our study. Dental caries is currently a public health problem among Myanmar children. Caries experience and oral hygiene status were strongly influenced by cariogenic bacteria.

Application of the integrated behavioral model to identify the predictors of toothbrushing practices among primary school children at Bahir Dar city, Ethiopia

Knowing the level of behavioral intention and tooth-brushing practices is crucial for the implementation of the intervention. However, such studies are too limited in Ethiopia. The current study employed a health behavior model to identify predictors that can serve to support primary school children's attitudes, intentions, knowledge, environmental constraints, and practices of tooth brushing. Thus, this study aimed to assess tooth brushing practices and their predictors among primary school children in Bahir Dar city, Ethiopia. An Institutional based cross-sectional study was conducted among primary school children in Bahir Dar city. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 610 participants. Data were collected using pre-tested interviewer-administered questionnaires. Questionnaires adapted from items' previous literature were used for integrated behavioral model constructs incorporated with elicitation study results. Data were entered into Epi data and then analyzed by Stata. Descriptive statistics were done. Confirmatory factor analysis was performed to check the convergent validity of the measurement. The Internal reliability of the items was also checked using composite reliability. Multivariable logistic regression was used to predict the role of independent variables in toothbrushing practices. Moreover, path analysis was performed to check the causal effect of integrated behavioral model constructs on toothbrushing practices. The goodness of fit of the final model was checked using the Hosmer and Lemeshow test of best fit with a large p value = 0.97 and Area under receiver operating characteristics curve = 0.98. The overall prevalence of the current practice of toothbrushing among the respondents was 45.4%. The prevalence of brushing frequency was 243 (89.01%), 27 (9.89%), and 3 (1.09%) brushed once a day, twice a day, and more than twice a day respectively. Female child's [AOR 3.23, 95% CI 1.48-7.02], mothers' education [AOR 4.6; 95% CI 1.22-17.44], past experience of toothbrushing [AOR 0.042; CI 0.018-0.101], knowledge about tooth brushing practices [AOR 1.3; 95% CI 1.09-1.60], behavioral intention [AOR 2.01; 95% CI 1.74-2.32], experiential attitude [AOR 1.09; 95% CI 1.01-1.17],instrumental attitude [AOR 1.02; 95% CI 1.01-1.03], and descriptive norm [AOR 1.07; 95% CI 1.01-1.14] were predictors of toothbrushing practices. The findings indicate that the practice of toothbrushing practices among primary school students was low. Sex, mother's education, knowledge, intention, experience, experiential attitude, instrumental attitude, and descriptive norm, have significant effects on toothbrushing practices; indicating that the integrated behavioral model showed adequate utility in predicting toothbrushing practices in the study area. School-based toothbrushing practices change interventions such as communication strategy.

Dental caries and associated factors among diabetic and nondiabetic adult patients attending Bichena Primary Hospital’s Outpatient Department

Purpose

Dental caries is a significant public health issue affecting both the diabetic and nondiabetic populations. However, the problem and associated factors of dental caries among diabetics and nondiabetics patients are not well-known in Ethiopia. This study aims to compare the prevalence of dental caries and associated factors among diabetic and nondiabetic patients at the Outpatient Department of Bichena Primary Hospital in Northwest, Ethiopia.

Methods

Institutional based, comparative cross-sectional study was conducted from October 7 to December 6, 2019, among 200 diabetes and 400 nondiabetic adult patients. A consecutive sampling technique was implemented to recruit study participants. Data were collected by a pretested structured questionnaire and analysis was performed in Statistical Package for Social Science version 20. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regressions were employed and variables with a p-value &lt; 0.05 were declared statistically significant.

Results

A total of 582 patients were involved in the study with a response rate of 97.0%. The prevalence of dental caries was 67.9% [95% confidence interval (CI): 63.2%–72.8%] and 79.6% (95% CI: 74.0%–85.70%) in nondiabetic and diabetic group, respectively. Females gender [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1.79, 95% CI: 1.15–2.77], poor oral hygiene (AOR = 2.95, 95% CI: 1.71–5.11), lack of regular teeth cleaning habits (AOR = 3.26, 95% CI: 2.13–4.97), feeling dry mouth (AOR = 2.31, 95% CI: 1.11–4.81), sugared tea drinking (AOR = 2.00, 95% CI: 1.18–3.38), inadequate oral health knowledge (AOR = 3.51, 95% CI: 2.19–5.62), and khat chewing (AOR = 2.14, 95% CI: 1.24–3.71) were significantly associated factors with high prevalence of dental caries.

Conclusion

The prevalence of caries was significantly higher among diabetics than nondiabetics. Oral health education with preventive measures such as improving teeth cleaning practice, reducing sugary foods and drinks intake, and improving oral hygiene practice of patients should be mainstreamed along with diabetic follow-up care.

Bacterial Profile, Antimicrobial Susceptibility Pattern, and Associated Factors among Dental Caries-Suspected Patients Attending the Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital and Private Dental Clinic in Mekelle, Northern Ethiopia

Background

Dental caries is a major public oral infectious disease globally due to its high prevalence and significant social impact. Many studies have been conducted on dental caries in Ethiopia; however, they fail to convey the antimicrobial resistance in the oral environment.

Objective

This study was conducted to determine the antimicrobial susceptibility patterns and biofilm formation in the bacteria isolated from dental caries and its associated factors of dental caries in THE Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital and private dental clinics located at Mekelle, Ethiopia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from September 2019 to October 2020. Sociodemographic characteristic, behavioral, and clinical data were collected using structured questionnaires. A total of 422 dental caries-suspected patients were selected and coronal caries scraps were collected by the dentist aseptically; these samples were transported to a microbiological laboratory to identify the antibiotic sensitivity assay and biofilm formation by the isolated pathogens. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 22. The P value of ≤0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The overall prevalence of culture-positive samples was found to be 196 (46.4%). From the 196 culture-positive samples, 327 bacteria were isolated. Out of 327 bacterial isolates, 196 (46.4%) were identified as Streptococcus mutans and 69 (35.2%) were identified to be Staphylococcus aureus. From the isolated bacteria, 311 (95.1%) organisms were identified as positive for biofilm formation. From the AST assay, we have identified that penicillin has the highest resistance rate of 76.5%, followed by tetracycline at 64.8%. In contrast, the antibiotics such as cefoxitin and chloramphenicol have a sensitivity of 83.5% and 81.6% to all the bacterial isolates. The overall prevalence of multidrug resistance (MDR) in the isolates was found to be 40.4%. With respect to the associated risk factors, the white spot (AOR = 3.885, 95% CI 1.282-11.767, P = 0.016), gum bleeding (AOR = 2.820, 95% CI 1.006-7.907, P = 0.049), toothache (AOR = 2.27, 95% CI 0.58-0.885, P = 0.033), and chocolate consumption (AOR = 5.314, 95% CI 1.760-16.040, P = 0.003) were statically associated with dental caries bacterial infection.

Conclusion

Based on our findings, we recommend the integration of routine culture and AST into clinical practice that might support the diagnosis and management of MDR in dental caries. The education on proper dietary habits might support the prevention and control of dental caries. It is important to provide health education on how to improve oral health in the study area. The education on proper dietary habits might support the prevention and control of dental caries. Further study is needed to find the other determinant factors of dental caries.

The prevalence of dental caries and associated factors among students living with disability in the Amhara region, Ethiopia

OBJECTIVES

People living with disability are more vulnerable to dental caries and have a high decayed, missed, and filled permanent teeth (DMFT) index and untreated dental disease than nondisabled individuals. In Ethiopia, there is a dearth of information on the oral health status of the disabled population. Hence, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of dental caries and its predictors among special needs school students in the Amhara region, Ethiopia.

METHODS

An institution-based cross-sectional study was done on special needs school students in the Amhara region from November 2020 to April 2021. The study participants were recruited using a simple random sampling technique using a computer random generator. Data collection was done using the World Health Organization oral health survey tool. Data entry was done using Epi-data 4.6 and analyzed using SPSS 26. A logistic regression model was used to identify the possible predictors of dental caries.

RESULTS

Four hundred and forty-three students with a mean age of 15.8 ± 3.8 were included in the study. The prevalence of dental caries was 41.5% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 36.3, 46.0) in permanent dentition with a mean DMFT score of 1.3 ± 1.6. The prevalence of dental caries in primary dentition was 23.1% (95% CI: 11.9, 32.1) with a mean decayed, missed, and filled primary teeth (dmft) score of 1.9 ± 0.2. Being 7-12 years old (adjusted odds ratios [AOR] = 3.6, 95% CI: 1.6, 8.3), lower grade level (AOR = 2.4, 95% CI:1.3,4.4), poor oral hygiene status (AOR = 2.5, 95% CI: 1.3, 4.8), and lack of parental support during tooth brushing (AOR = 2.2, 95% CI: 1.2, 4.1) were independent predictors of dental caries.

CONCLUSIONS

A significant amount of special needs school students in the study area had dental caries. Age, grade level, oral hygiene status, and lack of parent support during tooth brushing were independent predictors of dental caries.

Profiles of sugar fermenting bacteria of the oral cavity among children with dental caries attending stomatology services at Ruhengeri referral hospital in Musanze District, Northern Rwanda

BACKGROUND

Dental caries remains a public health threat of concern among children. About 2.3 billion people are affected by dental caries, of which 530 million are children globally.

OBJECTIVE

This study was carried out to identify sugar fermenting bacteria in the oral cavity and their antibiotic susceptibility pattern, assess the association with sugar fermenter bacteria and dental caries and evaluate dental caries outcomes among children.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study conducted between October 2021 and February 2022 at Ruhengeri Referral Hospital. About 136 oral swab samples were collected from children with and without dental caries at 1:1 ratio. The samples were put in Stuart sterile container and transported to INES-clinical microbiology laboratory for microbial identification. Logistic regression analysis of demographic characteristics was performed to study the relationship between demographic variables and dental caries. Chi-square test was performed for the association between variables.

RESULTS

About 67.6% were male, while children of age 7-9 years (64.7%) dominated the age groups. Lactobacilli spp (15.29%) and Streptococcus mutans (12.94%) were the most predominant microorganisms observed in the oral cavity among children with dental caries. The S. mutans (x² = 27.03, P < 0.00001, 95% confidence interval [CI]=0.2901-0.5785), S. aureus (x² = 34.59, P < 0.00001, 95% CI = 0.3541-0.6292), Enterobacter aerogenes (x² = 13.5, P = 0.000239, 95% CI = 0.151-0.4622), Serratia marcescens (x² = 11.64, P = 0.00645, 95% CI = 0.1275-0.4418) and Klebsiella pneumonia (x² = 13.51, P = 0.000237, 95% CI = 0.1511-0.4623) were significantly associated with dental caries. Teeth loss (x² = 51.04, P < 0.00001, 95% CI = 0.4757-0.7205), teeth pain (x² = 5.05, P = 0.0246, 95% CI = 0.0249-0.33499), and infection (x² = 4.73, P = 0.02964, 95% CI = 0.0186-0.3441) were dental outcomes associated with tooth decay. Ciprofloxacin, clindamycin, and amoxicillin were the most sensitive antibiotics, while vancomycin and chloramphenicol were the most resistant.

CONCLUSION

Sugar consumption favours the growth of sugar fermenter bacteria that cause dental caries among children. Dental caries is associated with adverse oral health outcomes among children. Oral health education is recommended for children. Parents are advised to reduce the consumption of sugary food for their children for oral health safety.

Possible Relationship Between the Oral and Gut Microbiome, Caries Development, and Obesity in Children During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought health damage and socioeconomic disruptions, together with lifestyle disorders around the world. Children are one of the most commonly affected, mainly due to social isolation and changes in eating habits and physical activities. This way, the risk of weight gain and obesity is possibly enhanced, as well as poor oral hygiene conditions and early childhood caries (ECC) development during the lockdown. In children under 6 years of age, ECC is defined as carious lesions in one or more primary teeth, with or without cavitation. Importantly, alterations in the oral microbiome caused by changes in children lifestyles have much more than a local impact on oral tissues, interplaying with the gut microbiome and influencing systemic environments. Recent studies have been exploring the oral health conditions, eating habits, and weight gain in the childhood population during the COVID-19 pandemic; however, there is a lack of information concerning the association among oral and gut microbiome, dental caries, and obesity in the COVID-19 era. In this context, this review aimed at analyzing a possible relationship between the oral and gut microbiome, caries, and obesity in children during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dental caries and associated factors among patients visiting Shashamane Comprehensive Specialized Hospital

Introduction

Dental caries is a major public health problem. In Ethiopia, prevention and treatment of oral health-related illness had given little attention and there is limited data on the extent and factors associated with oral health-related illnesses and oral care practices.

Objective

This study was aimed to investigate the prevalence of dental caries and associated factors among patients visiting Shashamane Comprehensive Specialized Hospital (SCSH).

Methods

A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 288 patients who visited SCSH dental clinic from March 1, 2021, to April 15, 2021. A questionnaire was employed to collect the background characteristics of the participants. Dental caries was confirmed as per World Health Organization guidelines. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 24. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression were used to determine predictors of dental caries. A p-value less than 0.05 was taken as a cut point to determine a significant association.

Results

The overall prevalence of dental caries was 64.6% with 95% CI (58.8‒70.1). The mean of Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth was 1.33. Dental caries was significantly higher among respondents who did not brush their teeth (AOR = 3.589, 95% CI:1.756‒7.334), who consumed sugary food (AOR = 3.650, 95% CI: 1.747‒7.628), those with monthly a income of less than 5000.00 Ethiopian Birr (AOR = 2.452, 95% CI (1.193‒5.042), and those who had poor oral hygiene status (AOR = 1.826, 95% CI: 0.901‒3.700).

Conclusions

This study revealed a high prevalence of dental caries among patients visiting the dental clinic. Tooth brushing habits, consumption of sugary food, and poor oral hygiene were significantly associated with dental caries.

Oral Health Status of Hearing-Impaired Students Attending Special Need Schools in Amhara Region, Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background

Oral health care is the most common unmet need among individuals with a disability. Individuals with a disability may have compromised oral health needs due to neglect from parents, socioeconomic problems, and communication barriers. In Ethiopia, there is a lack of data on oral health status of the hearing-impaired population. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the oral health status of hearing-impaired students in the Amhara region, Ethiopia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2020 to April 2021 on hearing-impaired students in Amhara region, Ethiopia. Data were collected using a pretested interview administered questionnaire and clinical examination. Oral cavity was evaluated using the simplified oral hygiene index, decayed, missed and filled teeth, and community periodontal index. Data analysis was done using SPSS 26.0, and logistic regression analysis was done to identify the risk factors of dental caries and periodontal disease.

Results

A total of 149 hearing impaired students with an age range of 7–30 years were involved in the study. The prevalence of periodontal disease and dental caries was 22.8% (95% CI: 16.8, 30.4) and 38.9% (95% CI; 32.2, 46.9), respectively. Being grade 1–4 student (AOR = 3.94, 95%: 1.16, 13.38), lack of formal education (AOR = 4.98, 95% CI: 1.00, 24.65), dental caries (AOR = 2.51, 95% CI: 1.08, 5.08) and bleeding on probing (AOR = 9.98, 95% CI: 3.69, 26.64) were statistically significant with periodontal disease. Grade level, parents’ support during brushing, oral health status, and medication intake were independent factors for dental caries.

Conclusion

In the present study, a significant number of hearing-impaired students had periodontal disease and dental caries. School oral health programs and caregivers assisted oral hygiene practices are essential to combat oral health problems in hearing-impaired students. Moreover, a nationwide prospective study with a large sample size will be required to reflect the oral health status of hearing-impaired individuals in the country.

Determinants of dental caries among adolescent patients attending Hospitals in West Wollega Zone, Western Ethiopia: A case-control study

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.

Determinants of Dental Health Problems Among Adult Patients at Dental Clinic, Debre Berhan Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Ethiopia: Unmatched Case-Control Study

Purpose

This study was aimed to assess the determinants of dental health problems among adult patients at the dental clinic of Debre Berhan Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Ethiopia.

Methods

A case-control study was conducted to recruit a total of 267 adults (cases = 134, and controls = 133) who received oral health screening service in Debre Berhan Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, 2018. Data were collected by physical examination and pretested semi-structured questionnaire from March 1 to 31, 2018. Collected data were entered in EpiData 3.1 and analyzed by using SPSS version 20. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regressions were done via the forward stepwise method. Variables were declared statistically significant when p-value <0.05.

Results

Of the total study participants, 75 (55%) of cases and 62 (46.6%) of controls were males. The mean age (± SD) of cases was 36.2 (± 14.2) years and that of controls was 31.4 (± 10.3) years. The classification table revealed that the sensitivity of cases was 70.7%, and the specificity of controls was 74.8%. This study showed that 28 (20.89%) of cases and 6 (4.5%) of controls had confirmed gastritis (P < 0.05). Regarding dental health information, 78 (58.2%) of cases and 123 (92.5%) of controls perceived that they had received dental health information from different sources. Access to dental health information and tooth brushing practice reduced dental health problems (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 0.28; 95% CI: 0.12, 0.64; and AOR = 0.24; 95% CI: 0.13, 0.45), respectively, whereas study participants who had gastritis were at increased risk of developing dental health problems (AOR = 3.12; 95% CI: 1.14, 8.57).

Interpretation

Study participants who had adequate information on dental health had a reduced risk of developing dental health problems by 72% and participants who practiced tooth brushing were at reduced risk of developing dental health problems by 76%. However, individuals who had gastritis were 3 times more likely to develop dental health problems compared with their counterparts.

Conclusion

In summary, health information, tooth brushing practice, and gastritis infection were the determinants of dental health problems. Thus, health information dissemination on dental health particularly on how to prevent and control dental health problems is very critical. Moreover, strategies to combat gastritis integrated with life course principles should be strengthened to improve dental health.

Prevalence of Dental Caries and Associated Factors in East Africa, 2000-2020: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: Dental caries affects mastication, growth and development, and school attendance and has a long-term psychological effect on affected individuals. In developing countries, the prevalence of dental caries is increasing due to the growing consumption of sugary foods, poor tooth brushing habits, and a low level of awareness about dental caries. Even if there was a high prevalence of dental caries in sub-Saharan Africa, there is a paucity of data on the prevalence of dental caries in East Africa. Hence, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of dental caries and associated factors in East Africa. Methods: A systematic search of articles was conducted in MEDLINE, Scopus, and Google Scholar using all the synonyms of dental caries in published literature (until December 2020) in East Africa. Important data were extracted using a standardized data extraction form prepared in Excel. Stata software (version 14.0) was used to calculate the pooled prevalence of dental caries. Besides, subgroup analysis was done based on country and dentition type. Moreover, associated factors of dental caries were assessed and the overall effect was presented in the form of odds ratios. The quality of the included studies was evaluated using the Joanna Briggs Institute reviewers' manual. Results: The overall pooled prevalence of dental caries was found to be 45.7% (95% CI = 38.0-53.4). The pooled prevalence was high in Eritrea (65.2%, 95% CI = 49.2-81.1), followed by Sudan (57.8%, 95% CI = 36.0-79.7), and a low prevalence was found in Tanzania (30.7%, 95% CI = 21.5-39.9). Moreover, the subgroup analysis revealed a prevalence of 50% (95% CI = 38.4-62.1) in permanent dentition and 41.3% (95% CI = 33.5-49.2) in mixed dentition. The overall mean decayed, missed, and filled permanent (DMFT) and primary (dmft) teeth were 1.941 (95% CI = 1.561-2.322) and 2.237 (95% CI = 1.293-3.181), respectively. High DMFT scores were reported in Sudan (3.146, 95% CI = 1.050-5.242) and Uganda (2.876, 95% CI = 2.186-3.565). Being female (OR = 1.34, 95% CI = 1.24-1.46) and having poor tooth brushing habit (OR = 1.967, 95% CI = 1.67-2.33) were independent risk factors of dental caries. Conclusion: The overall prevalence of dental caries was comparatively high. Being female and poor oral health practice were independent risk factors of dental caries. The Ministry of Health of the member countries, along with dental associations of each country, ought to offer due attention to strengthen the oral health program in schools and primary health care centers and the implementation of school water fluoridation.

Evaluation of health appraisal project of primary school children: a study in Egypt

BACKGROUND

School Health insurance (SHI) is working in Egypt since 2003. However, there were no impact indicators that inform policy makers about health status of school children. Therefore, the school health project was conducted by Arab Medical Union (AMU) Medical Syndicate in cooperation with Ministry of Education (MOE), Ministry of Health and Population (MOHP) and Public Health Department, Cairo University to conduct comprehensive medical services to primary school children and to assess the impact of the SHI and the efficiency of AMU project to promote health of children.

METHODS

In-depth interview with policy makers in MOHP, MOE, SHI and secondary analysis of AMU documents. A systematic random sample of 7000 students (7-10 years) was selected which formed 10% of the examined children in AMU project and proportionally distributed in 355 schools in seven Districts in Fayoum Governorate.

RESULTS

SHI was ineffective in providing preventive services to school children. The AMU project was efficient in covering 82% of the targeted students with clinical, preventive and referral services with estimated cost per student were 54.8LE. Clinical findings showed anaemia the major problem (84%), dental (33%), hair/scalp (9%) and visual errors (6%).

CONCLUSION

The current Primary Health Care facilities needs to improve the quality preventive and curative health services provided to school children. Also, providing health services through medical conveys was of high cost and unsustainable.

Prevalence of Dental Caries and Its Associated Factors among Primary School Children in Ethiopia

Background. Dental caries (decay or cavities) is a breakdown of teeth as a result of bacteria. Dental caries is one of the preventable oral health problems and the most common chronic diseases in childhood. Poor dental and oral health affect the quality of children’s life. Objectives. To estimate the prevalence of dental caries and its associated factors among primary school children in Alem Ketema, North Showa, Ethiopia. Methodology. An institution-based quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted on 422 primary school children, from February 9 to March 8, 2020. Pretested structured questionnaire and oral examinations were conducted by using the WHO criteria (DMFT) index to collect the data. The data were entered into Epi-Data 3.1 software, and analysis was carried out using SPSS version 23 and variables with $P$ value ≤0.05 in the multivariable binary logistic analysis were considered as a cut-point to declare statistical significance. Result. The prevalence of dental caries was 46.9% (95% CI: 42.1, 51.7). The mean Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT) index was 1.28 (±1.21). Being male (AOR = 1.975, 95% CI = 1.067–3.66), lack of parents’ insistence (AOR = 2.052, 95% CI = 1.079–3.902), lack of oral health education program (AOR = 4.753, 95% CI = 1.69–13.38), history of dental aches (AOR = 2.88, 95% CI = 1.55–5.32), and poor habit of mouth wash (AOR = 4.74, 95% CI = 2.55–8.79) were found significantly associated with dental caries. Conclusion. The prevalence of dental caries was higher and a common public health problem among school children. Lack of parent’s insistence, sex, dental ache history, poor practices of mouth wash, and lack of oral health education were significant predictors of dental caries. Therefore, oral health education program and parents encouraging their children to practice oral hygiene are important to prevent dental caries.

Determinants of intention to improve oral hygiene behavior among students based on the theory of planned behavior: A structural equation modelling analysis

INTRODUCTION

The prevalence of oral hygiene behaviors (OHB) is very low among school children in Ethiopia. However, the determinants of student's readiness/intention to perform those behaviors have been remained unstudied.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to identify the determinants of oral hygiene behavioral intention (OHBI) among preparatory school students based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB).

METHODS AND MATERIALS

An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 393 students. A 98-item self-administered questionnaire was used to evaluate oral hygiene knowledge (OHK), oral hygiene behavior (OHB), and OHBI based on TPB variables [attitude (ATT), subjective norms (SN) and perceived behavioral control (PBC)]. Descriptive statistics and structural equation modeling analysis (SEM) were employed to confirm relationships and associations among study variables. A p-value of less than 0.05 and a 95% confidence interval were used to declare statistical significance.

RESULTS

A total of 393 students were participated with a response rate of 97.5%. The mean age of the participants (54% females) was 18 (± 1.3) with an age range of 16 to 24. The TPB model was well fitted to the data and explained 66% of the variance in intention. ATT (β = 0.38; 95% CI, (0.21, 0.64)), SN (β = 0.33; 95% CI, (0.05, 0.83)) and PBC (β = 0.29; 95% CI, (0.13, 0.64)) were significant predictors of OHBI, where ATT was the strongest predictor of OHBI.

CONCLUSION

The TPB model explained a large variance in the intention of students to improve their OHB. All TPB variables were significantly and positively linked to stronger intent, as the theory suggests. Furthermore, these results suggest that the model could provide a framework for oral hygiene promotion interventions in the study area. Indeed, these interventions should focus on changing the attitudes of students towards OHB, creation of positive social pressure, and enabling students to control over OHB barriers.

Dental caries and associated factors in Ethiopia: systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Globally, dental caries may be a major public health issue which may be preventable. Many studies have been conducted on dental caries in Ethiopia which present inconsistent results.

OBJECTIVE

This meta-analysis was expected to consolidate the findings conducted in various regions of the country and generate country representative information on the burden and its associated factors of dental caries in Ethiopia.

METHODS

Our systematic review and meta-analysis was carried out to estimate the pooled prevalence of dental caries and its associated factors in the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia. Medical specialty databases like ScienceDirect, HINARI, Embase, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library were consistently and exhaustively searched. To determine the aggregate prevalence, studies delineating the prevalence of dental caries and associated factors were included. Important data were extracted employing a standardized data extraction tool ready in Microsoft Excel and imported to the STATA version-13 statistical software package for analyses. To assess non-uniformity, the Cochrane Q test statistics and I2 test were performed respectively. A random effects model meta-analysis was accustomed to estimate the pooled burden of dental caries.

RESULTS

The result of thirteen studies disclosed that the overall prevalence of dental caries in the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia was found to be 40.98 (31.62, 50.34). Within the subgroup analysis, the uppermost prevalence was determined in Tigray region (46.59% (24.64, 68.54)) whereas the bottom prevalence was determined in Addis Ababa (34.20% (8.42, 59.97)). Dental caries prevalence was considerably high among study subjects who consumed sweet food (OR= 2.4 (95% CI (1.91, 3.01))). But the presence of dental plaque (OR = 5.14 (95% CI (0.67, 39.39))) and habit of tooth- cleaning (OR = 0.71 (95% CI (0.17, 2.96))) were not statistically significant with the outcome of interest.

CONCLUSION

Our meta-analysis found that the prevalence of dental caries was comparatively high, and sweet food consumption was the most risk issue for dental caries in Ethiopia. The Ethiopian Federal Ministry of Health ought to offer a lot of attention to strengthen the oral health care system and also the implementation of community-level interference programs.

Assessment of Brushing Techniques in School Children and Its Association with Dental Caries, Omdurman, 2019

Background

Dental caries are a common infectious disease of childhood. It is a highly prevalent disease among children.

Aim

The goal of this study was to assess the different brushing techniques used by school children and to identify if there is an association between brushing techniques and dental caries.

Materials and Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among 396 school children (9-12 years old) chosen by convenience sampling technique from schools located in Omdurman locality, Sudan. After consent was taken, students were asked in an interview-based questionnaire about their brushing habits. Consequently, they were examined in an upright position using a sterile mouth mirror and a probe. The examination was carried out by a single examiner to investigate the presence of dental caries. The diagnosis was done based on the World Health Organization diagnostic criteria 2013. The data were analyzed through descriptive statistics and comparison between values using the chi-square test with a P value <0.05.

Results

The present study found that the prevalence of dental caries is 70.9%. The combined brushing technique was the most used technique (42.9%). There was no statistical significance between brushing techniques and dental caries (P value ≤0.330). There was a statistical significance between the periodic change of the toothbrush and dental caries (P value ≤0.001). There was statistical significance between the level of education of the mother (P value ≤0.001) and father (P value ≤0.012) to the brushing technique used by the child as well.

Conclusion

Due to a lack of awareness consequent of lower socioeconomic status, only a few percentage of the Sudanese population knows how to implement the correct oral hygiene practices to combat dental caries. It is important to design a specific public health program that particularly targets families of low socioeconomic status, which represents the majority. Dental caries persist as a widespread condition in Sudan as a result of a deficit in these kinds of programs.

Dental caries experience and associated factors in adults: a cross-sectional community survey within Ethiopia

Background

Ethiopia is a developing sub-Saharan African country with increasing prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including oral conditions. Oral health and dental care have been given little consideration, and there is limited information relating to population oral health and use of dental services in the country. The aim of this study was to examine the burden and associated factors of dental caries experience and investigate access to dental care amongst adults within Ethiopia.

Methods

This community-based oral health survey is a baseline study for the ASSET - Health System Strengthening in sub-Saharan Africa project undertaken in the Butajira area, south-central Ethiopia. A stratified random sample of households and individuals participated in the study. The survey instruments were mainly based on the WHO Oral Health Survey Methods manual (5^th ed.). Face-to-face interviews and clinical dental examinations were conducted. The data were analysed for descriptive statistics; and Poisson regression models were built to assess the association of dental caries and predictor variables in adults (≥18 years).

Results

Most of the study population (n = 626) were female (63.9%), married (71.4%) and Muslim (76.0%). Just over half (53.2%) lived in rural areas and many (44.4%) had no formal education. A majority (74.0%) reported never utilising dental care services, and the main reason was never experiencing any dental problem (71.3%). Sixty percent (n = 377) of the adults had experienced dental caries, 88.0% (n = 332) of whom had untreated carious teeth. Pain or discomfort was reported by 16.5, and 7.2% had one or more PUFA component. Most (59.9%) adults with dental caries experience reported tooth pain or discomfort during the last year. In the fully adjusted Poisson regression model, increasing age, dental care utilisation and Khat chewing had positive significant associations with dental caries experience, whilst education status was negatively associated (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

This study demonstrated a high burden of dental caries and considerable consequences resulting from untreated disease in this population of adults. There was evidence of social inequity, limited utilisation of dental care and oral health awareness. This highlights the need for oral health system strengthening focusing on health promotion and expanding overall access to care.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-021-10199-9.

Statistical analysis of criteria for efficiency of filling of permanent teeth in children

Introduction: The effectiveness of caries treatment depends on many factors, such as the condition of dental tissues, the stage of root development, the period of dentition, the quality of preparation and isolation, the optimal choice of material for restoration. The problem of choosing the filling material is acute in each treatment of caries in children with mixed and permanent dentition. The aim: Todetermine and statistically substantiate parameters for choosing restorative material for permanent teeth in children with different stages of root development. Materials and methods: 248 children aged 7 to 11 (122 boys and 126 girls) and 246 children aged 12 to 17 (120 boys and 126 girls),students of Uzhhorod Secondary School №20 were examined. Restoration materials -"Polofil Supra" (VOCO, Germany) and "DyracteXtra" (Densply, USA). The following criteria were investigated: saliva pH, area of destruction of the occlusal surface of masticatory teeth, stage of root development, depth of the lesion and cavity topography, the acid resistance of the enamel. For the purpose of statistical justification of the selected parameters that pointed as significant in the choice of restorative materials, and for the analysis of the interrelations of the parameters studied, the Spearman correlation coefficient (r) was determined. The correlation coefficient was considered statistically significant when p <0.05. Results: For children aged 7-17 years to restore permanent teeth during the period of mixed and permanent dentition, the best materials in use were: "Polofil Supra" (VOCO, Germany) and "DyracteXtra" (Dentsply, USA). Conclusion: To restore permanent teeth in any stage of root development, it is rational to use a compomer material "DyracteXtra" (r = 0.80), and a composite material "Polofil Supra" -under the conditions of the formed root, at a pH level of more than 6.2, a high degree acid resistance of the enamel and the area of destruction of the occlusal surface less than 0.55 (r = 0.72).

Global and regional estimates of dental pain among children and adolescents-systematic review and meta-analysis

AIM

We aimed to evaluate the pooled prevalence of dental pain amongst children and adolescents.

METHODS

Studies conducted in children and adolescents up to18 years of age and where prevalence of dental is reported or calculated were included. Search was performed in four major databases from inception to June 1st, 2019. Prevalence estimate at the maximal recall for the dental pain for the individual study was used to calculate the overall pooled estimate.

RESULTS

The prevalence of dental pain ranged from 1.33 to 87.8% in the included publications for quantitative synthesis (n = 97). More than half of the publications reported the lifetime prevalence of dental pain (n = 51) while few studies reported the current prevalence of dental pain (n = 3) and only one study evaluated the dental pain in the past one week. Heterogeneity was high among the included publications (Q = 49,063.12; P < 0.001; df = 96 and I² = 99.8; P < 0.001). Overall pooled prevalence of dental pain was 32.7 (CI = 29.6-35.9). No difference was seen with respect to the trends in prevalence of dental pain (Coefficient: 0.005; 95% CI - 0.001-0.011; P-value: 0.101).

CONCLUSION

Two out of ten children below five years, four out of ten children between 6 and 12 years and three out of ten adolescents between 13 and 18 years would have experienced pain in the past. Overall, three out of ten children or adolescents might have experienced dental pain in the past. There was no difference in the pain prevalence between male and females. Studies from Africa reported highest pooled prevalence (50.1%) with least being from Australia (20.7%). Studies from India (40.4%), China (41.3%) and Iran (42.6%) reported high pooled prevalence estimates of dental pain.

Dental caries and associated factors among adolescents aged 12 to 15 in Jiangxi Province, China

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this survey was to examine the association of general characteristics, oral health knowledge, attitudes, behavior, and dental caries status among adolescents in Jiangxi Province and to provide a basis for future prevention of dental caries among middle school students.

METHODS

A total of 8,160 adolescents aged 12 to 15 years were invited to participate in this survey by a stratified random cluster sampling method from 30 schools in five counties in Jiangxi Province. A self-administered questionnaire was used to understand their basic characteristics, including oral health behaviors, knowledge, and attitudes. Chi-square tests were used to compare dental caries status and general characteristics. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to study the effects of oral health knowledge, attitudes, and behavior on dental caries.

RESULTS

The prevalence of dental caries in permanent teeth was 25.8 percent, and the mean DMFT score of 12- to 15-year-old adolescents was 0.48 ± 1.04. The prevalence in rural areas was higher than that in urban areas (P < 0.001). The prevalence was higher in girls than in boys (P < 0.001). No significant age differences were observed (P > 0.05) in the prevalence of dental caries. The multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that the variables associated with dental caries were tooth brushing frequency, use of toothpaste, frequency of sugary milk intake, smoking, and oral health attitudes.

CONCLUSIONS

This study revealed that adolescent oral health behaviors and attitudes were associated with dental caries. It is important to implement targeted oral disease prevention and control measures among adolescents.

Structural equation modelling of the complex relationship between toothache and its associated factors among Indonesian children

The Indonesian family life survey (IFLS) is used for formulating various government policies. Our preliminary study using data from the IFLS showed increase in the prevalence of toothache from 2007 to 2014. Hence, a need to analyse the factors associated with toothache using structural equation modelling (SEM) for identifying the direct and indirect association of factors with toothache was evident. The objective of this study is to analyse the complex relationships between toothache and its associated risk factors. This cross-sectional study was conducted on the data obtained from the IFLS in 2014. The IFLS data pertaining to toothache and its prevalence were analysed using the STATA software, and the multifaceted relationship was analysed using SEM. The prevalence of toothache among Indonesian children was 15.55% (1,959 of 12,595). SEM showed the direct association between toothache and age (p < 0.001) and parent awareness of children's health conditions (p < 0.005) and food consumption frequency (p < 0.001). Parents’ education level and residential area showed an indirect association with toothache, mediated by socio-economic status and parent awareness of children's health conditions (p < 0.001). We identified the multifaceted relationship between toothache and the social covariates. Parents’ awareness of their children’s health conditions mediated several indirect associations, highlighting its importance.

Magnitude of Dental Caries and Its Associated Factors Among Governmental Primary School Children in Debre Berhan Town, North-East Ethiopia

Background

In Ethiopia, oral health prevention and treatment have gotten low attention in the government, and the existing dental services are privately owned and thus expensive. Hence, this study aimed to assess the prevalence of dental caries and its associated factors among governmental primary school children in Debre Berhan town, Ethiopia, 2019.

Methods

An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted from January 30 to February 14/2019. A total of 417 primary school children were selected using computer-generated simple random sampling and interviewed using structured and pretested questionnaires. Data were coded, entered, and cleaned using Epi-data version 3.1 and export to SPSS version 22 for analysis. Binary logistic regression analysis was employed to test the association between dependent and independent variables. P-value less than 0.05 was taken as significant association. Finally, the result of this study was present by text, tables, and graphs.

Results

Out of the 396 study participants, 135 (34.1%) had dental caries. Of these, more than half, 95 (59.37%) had the pre-molar decayed. Two hundred eighty-five (72.0%) of them were cleaned their teeth. The Independent predictors of dental caries were drinking sugared tea [AOR= 2.034, 95% CI: (1.223–3.385)] and food particle on their teeth [AOR= 6.709, 95% CI: (3.475–12.954)], which had shown a significant association with dental caries.

Conclusion

The over magnitude of dental caries was relatively high and found to be a public health problem. Drinking sugar tea, presence of food particles, or dental plaque were significantly associated with dental caries. In contrast, merchant occupation reduced the chance of dental caries. Giving health education to minimize drinking sugar tea and cleaning their teeth after consumption of sugar tea should be given attention.

Dental Caries and Associated Factors Among Patients Attending the University of Gondar Comprehensive Hospital Dental Clinic, North West Ethiopia: A Hospital-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Purpose

Dental caries are an emerging public health problem in developing countries in the last two decades. However, there is a paucity of data on dental caries in northwest Ethiopia. This study investigated the prevalence of dental caries and associated factors in northwest Ethiopia.

Patients and Methods

A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted in 368 patients who visited the University of Gondar Comprehensive Hospital Dental Clinic. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select the samples. Data were collected by three qualified dental surgeons using a pre-designed questionnaire modified from a WHO oral health survey and the clinical examination was done using the WHO dental caries diagnosis guideline. Data analysis was done using SPSS 20. Descriptive data were presented in tables and logistic regression analysis was done to identify the possible predisposing factors using odds ratios with 95% confidence interval.

Results

The prevalence of dental caries in this study was 23.64% (95% CI: 19.30, 28.00) with a significant difference between females (30.56%) and males (17.02%). Being female (AOR=2.15 (95% CI: 1.31, 3.52), poor oral hygiene practice (AOR=2.44 (95% CI: 1.46, 4.07), being diabetic (AOR=8.15 (95% CI: 3.2, 20.75), low educational level (AOR=1.81 (95% CI: 1.05, 3.1), low monthly income (AOR=3.05 (95% CI: 1.54, 6.02) and halitosis (AOR=10.98 (95% CI: 5.68, 2.24) were significantly associated with dental caries. The mean DMFT score was 1.095±0.24 (SD). The majority of the DMFT (70.59%) was due to decay, while filled tooth accounted for only 2.17% of the DMFT. The DMFT score was higher in females (0.625), urban residents (0.85), and those with montly income of ≤2500 Ethiopian birr (0.86). The mean DMFT was 0.13.

Conclusion

The prevalence of dental caries in the study participants was 23.64% andwas higher in males than females and in diabetic patients. Female gender, poor tooth brushing habits, diabetes mellitus, and halitosis were significant predictors associated with dental caries.

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.

Analysis of salivary level Lactobacillus spp. and associated factors as determinants of dental caries amongst primary school children in Harar town, eastern Ethiopia

BACKGROUND

Lactobacillus spp. play a major role in the development of dental caries. Although effective methods are known for the prevention and management of dental caries, its prevalence of dental caries is increasing amongst school-age children in Ethiopia. Hence, this study is aimed to determine the association of salivary Lactobacillus spp. level and oral health factors as determinants of dental caries amongst primary school children in Harar town, Eastern Ethiopia.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted amongst primary school children (n = 407) using a questionnaire survey, clinical DMFT (decayed, missing, filled tooth number) examination and enumeration of salivary level Lactobacillus spp. Data were analyzed by SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Science software- version 25.0). The odds ratio was used to determine the predictors of the outcome. The data were expressed as mean ± SD. Statistical significance was defined as a p-value of less than 0.05.

RESULTS

The prevalence of dental caries was found to be 36.9% amongst primary school children. The mean DMFT value of the participants was 0.95 ± 1.57. The dental decay component was the primary observation that accounted for 84.6% of the DMFT. Almost, 67% of the saliva culture revealed a significant amount of Lactobacillus spp.

COUNT

The mean bacterial count was found to be 14.92 × 10⁵ ± 22.92 × 10⁵. Among various parameters analysed for association with dental caries, a number of them show positive associtation, incluing reduction in academic scores in the prevous academic year (p = 0.034), grade levels of school children 1-4 (p = 0.041), sweet food consumption habit (p = 0.003), absence of daily teeth cleaning habit (p = 0.002), absence of toothpaste use (p = 0.001), dental ache history (p = < 0.001), significant microbial load of salivary Lactobacillus spp. (p = < 0.001), acidic (p = 0.028) and basic salivary pH (p = 0.025).

CONCLUSION

A significant salivary Lactobacillus count associated with lower grade level, sweet diet, and poor oral hygiene were found to be the determinant factors for dental caries. Thus, dissemination of oral health information is obligatory to prevent dental caries amongst primary school children in the study area.

Evaluation of risk factors in caries formation in children

Background/Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the risk factors in caries formation and relationships between each other in children. Material and Methods: A total of 84 children aged between 5-15 years were included in the study. The children were randomly selected among the patients who came to the clinic. Oral disorders and oral hygiene were evaluated with the oral examination. Examination of the children was carried out by two calibrated pediatric dentists. Plaque index, dmf-t index (decay-missed-filled primary tooth) and DMF-T index (decay-missed-filled permanent tooth) scores were evaluated by clinical examination. Plaque index was evaluated using Sillness & Loe plaque index. In addition, a questionnaire was performed about children's age, tooth brushing habits, sweet consumption, dentist visit and dental treatment experience. Statistical analysis was conducted with Mann Whitney-U test, Chi-Square test, Independent t-test and Correlation test. Results: When the survey data is examined, there was no significant difference between boy and girl patients regarding dmft, DMFT, frequency of tooth brushing, sweet consumption and plaque index scores (p>0,05). There was no relationship between frequency of sweet consumption and DMF-T, dmf-t and plaque index scores (p>0,05). No significant relationship was found between the frequency of tooth brushing and DMF-T and dmf-t scores (p>0,05). The examinations were revealed that there were no children with regular tooth brushing habits and the plaque index scores of children with irregular tooth brushing habit was lower than the children with no brushing habits (p<0,05). In addition, a positive correlation was also observed between age and plaque index and DMFT scores. However, a negative correlation was observed between age and dmft scores. Conclusions: It is observed that there was a significant relationship between tooth brushing habits and plaque index values of children.

The Use of Medicinal Plants for the Treatment of Toothache in Ethiopia

This paper presents a review of relevant medicinal plants used for toothache treatment in Ethiopia. This finding is based on a review of the literature published in scientific journals. A total of 130 medicinal plants, distributed in 117 genera and 62 families, are reported in the reviewed literature. Of the 130 species of medicinal plants reported in the literature, ninety-two (70.7%) were obtained from the wild whereas twelve (9.2%) were from home gardens. Shrubs (34.6%) were the primary source of medicinal plants, followed by herbs (30%). The Asteraceae came out as a leading family with 12 medicinal species while the Fabaceae followed with nine. Some findings include the predominance of root material used (31%), followed by leaves (29%). This study demonstrates the importance of traditional medicines in the treatment of toothache in Ethiopia. It is essential for the health of users to phytochemically demonstrate the effects of medicinal plants for their possible therapeutic applications. Hence, future phytochemical and pharmaceutical studies should give due consideration on frequently reported medicinal plants in order to produce natural drugs that could be effective in toothache treatment and without side effects.

Bayesian model with application to a study of dental caries

BACKGROUND

Dental caries are a significant public health problem. It is a disease with multifactorial causes. In Sub-Sahara Africa, Ethiopia is one of the countries with a high record of dental caries. This study was to determine the risk factors affecting dental caries using both Bayesian and classical approaches.

METHODS

The study design was a retrospective cohort study in the period of March 2009 to March 2013 dental caries patients Hawassa Haik Poly Higher Clinic. The Bayesian logistic regression procedure was adapted to make inference about the parameters of a logistic regression model. The purpose of this method was generating the posterior distribution of the unknown parameters given both the data and some prior density for the unknown parameters.

RESULTS

From this study the prevalence of natural dental caries was 87% and non-natural dental caries were 13%. The age group of 18-25 was higher prevalence of dental caries than the other age groups. From Bayesian logistic regression, we found out that rural patients, do not clean their teeth, patients from SNNPR and age group 18-25 are statistically significant. The finding from the Bayesian statistics approach is getting popular in data analysis than classical statistics because the technique is more robust and precise.

CONCLUSIONS

Bayesian approach was found to be better than classical method as the value of the standard errors in Bayesian approaches is smaller than that of classical logistic regression. The Bayesian credible interval is smaller than the length of the confidence interval for all significant risk factors. Age, sex, place of residence, region and habit of cleaning teeth was found to have a significant effect on dental caries patients.

Factors related to dental caries in 10-year-old Vietnamese schoolchildren

BACKGROUND

In Vietnam, research is required to provide a clearer understanding of the factors associated with dental caries. This will allow paediatric dentists and physicians to provide appropriate care to children.

AIM

To determine the factors related to dental caries and to evaluate the association between dental caries and nutritional status in 10-year-old schoolchildren.

METHOD

In 2015, 1,079 10-year-old children were randomly selected from 16 public schools in Ho Chi Minh City. Information on self-reported oral health, dental habits, eating, drinking and physical activity behaviours was obtained via a questionnaire. Anthropometric measurements (height and weight) were also taken. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated, and nutritional classification of children was conducted using the BMI-for-age percentile. Dental plaque and dental caries (decayed and filled teeth) were recorded for both primary and permanent teeth.

RESULTS

Dental caries was experienced on primary and permanent teeth by 60.7% and 39.6%, respectively, of subjects. The factors significantly related to primary tooth decay were school location [odds ratio (OR) = 1.78], self-reported dental caries (OR = 1.36), frequency of tooth self-checking (OR = 1.32), toothbrushing habits (OR = 1.31) and nutritional status (OR = 1.77); however, the factors associated with permanent tooth decay were school location (OR = 2.66), self-reported dental caries (OR = 1.34), frequency of tooth self-checking (OR = 1.37), frequency of dental check-ups (OR = 1.35), toothbrushing habits (OR = 1.31) and nutritional status (OR = 1.39 and 1.74) (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Dental caries was associated with school location, dental-related behaviours and nutritional status in 10-year-old schoolchildren in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Assessment of prevalence of dental caries and the associated factors among patients attending dental clinic in Debre Tabor general hospital: a hospital-based cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Dental caries is the most common dental health problem caused by the interaction of bacteria on tooth enamel. Risk factors for dental caries include salivary composition and inadequate fluoride. However, other factors, such as standard of living, behavior, hygiene, eating habits, social status and socio-demographic factors, also contribute to the evolution of caries. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of dental caries and associated factors among patients attending the dental clinic in Debre Tabor General Hospital in North West Ethiopia.

METHOD

An institution based cross-sectional study was conducted among 280 systematically selected patients attending Debre Tabor General Hospital dental clinic from May 8-20, 2017. The data were collected using pre-tested questionnaire and oral examination by a qualified dental professional. Basic hygienic procedures were observed during an oral examination. The teeth were examined for dental caries by the presence of decay, missing and filled teeth. The data were entered into Epi-Info version 3.5 and cleaned and analyzed using SPSS version 20. Descriptive summary of the data and logistic regression were used to identify possible predictors using odds ratio with 95% confidence interval and P-value of 0.05.

RESULTS

A total of 280 subjects participated in the study; among whom 129 (46.1%) were female and nearly two-thirds of the respondents 208 (74.3%) attended formal education. The study revealed k8that the overall prevalence of dental caries was 78.2%. Dental caries was lower among respondents who had good oral hygiene status (AOR = 0.05, 95% CI, 0.02, 0.81). Dental caries was higher among participants who earned less than 5000 Eth Birr per month (AOR = 8.43, 95% CI, 2.6, 27.2). Dental caries was lower among respondents who had good knowledge (AOR = 0.51, 95% CI, 0.03, 0.64).

CONCLUSIONS

Prevalence of dental caries was high and found public health problem. Socioeconomic status, educational level, and poor oral hygiene practices were associated factors for dental caries. Health promotion about oral hygiene and integration of services are supremely important for the prevention of the problem of dental caries.

Presence of Dental Caries Is Associated with Food Insecurity and Frequency of Breakfast Consumption in Korean Children and Adolescents

Dental caries remains one of the most common chronic diseases affecting children worldwide with a multi-factorial etiology. The objective of the study was to evaluate the association between socioeconomic status (SES), dietary intake, food insecurity (FI), and dental caries in Korean children and adolescents. The study utilized data from the 2-year Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) conducted with 1,559 Korean boys and 1,391 girls aged 2 to 18 years from 2012 to 2013. Fathers' education (P=0.017), mothers' education (P<0.001), and household income (P=0.049) were all significantly associated with dental caries among Korean boys. As for dietary practices, both eating breakfast (P<0.001) and frequency of eating out (P<0.001) were strongly associated with dental caries (P<0.001). Three models of FI were used and no differences were found regarding genders. In model 3, both food insecure male [odds ratio (OR)=1.682, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.999~2.832] and female (OR=1.900, 95% CI: 1.094~3.299) subjects had higher odds of developing dental caries than food secure subjects after adjusting the confounding factors. The present study showed a strong association between FI mediated by SES and dental caries. Nutrition education programs targeting low-socioeconomic families are necessary as a tool to prevent dental caries in Korea.

Association of caries experience and dental plaque with sociodemographic characteristics in elementary school-aged children: a cross-sectional study

Background

Dental caries among Iranian elementary school children aged 6–12 years continue to rise. To estimate treatment needs and guide health initiatives, current epidemiologic data are required. Such data are currently unavailable for dental health. The purpose of this study was to assess caries experience, dental plaque, and associated factors in elementary school-aged children from Iran.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, 988 elementary school children aged 7–12 years were selected by multistage cluster sampling. Dental caries was studied using the WHO criteria, dental plaque was examined according to O’Leary index. Data on parental education and occupation, living district, dental pain within the past year, and tooth brushing habits under parental supervision were collected through interviews based on questionnaire. The data were analyzed with descriptive statistics and logistic and linear regression.

Results

The mean (SD) age of the elementary school children was 9.64 (1.73) years. The highest dmft was seen in elementary school children aged 7–8 years 6.53 (4.37) and the highest DMFT and dental plaque was in 12 year olds recorded as 1.17 (1.77) and 51.97 (25.86), respectively. The proportion of decayed teeth in 7 years old elementary school based on dmft index was 80.36%, moreover, the proportion in 12 years old elementary school was 40.17% based on the DMFT index. Age, gender, and dental pain within the past year were significantly associated with DMFT and dmft. The odds of developing dental caries (DMFT) was 1.70 times higher in girls than in boys (p < 0.001) and 1.72 times higher in the students that reported dental pain frequently than in those who did not (p = 0.005). The chance of developing dental caries (dmft) was 0.47 times lower in girls than boys (p < 0.001). Age was significantly correlated with dental plaque such that Plaque Index increased by 2.44 times per one year increase in age (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Results indicated that dental caries experience and plaque formation among elementary school children in Hamadan were high and they were influenced by their sociodemographic factors. The associations found can be used as a helpful guide for planning accurate preventive programs for elementary school children in this region.

Factors Associated with Dental Pain in Mexican Schoolchildren Aged 6 to 12 Years

OBJECTIVE

To identify dental pain prevalence and associated factors in Mexican schoolchildren.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included 1,404 schoolchildren aged 6 to 12 years from public schools in the city of Pachuca de Soto, Hidalgo, Mexico. Data were collected through a questionnaire that addressed sociodemographic and socioeconomic factors, eating and dental hygiene habits, and behavior variables. The dependent variable was self-reported dental pain in the 12 months prior to the survey. Data were analyzed using nonparametric statistics and a binary logistical regression model.

RESULTS

Dental pain prevalence among the studied children was 49.9%. The variables associated in the final model (p < 0.05) were younger mother's age, higher socioeconomic level, absence of an automobile in the home, fried food, fruit intake, lower tooth brushing frequency, never having used mouthwash or not knowing about it, and parents/guardians with regular to high levels of knowledge about oral health and a regular or good/very good perception of their child's oral health.

CONCLUSIONS

One in two children in the study had experienced dental pain in the twelve months prior to the survey. The association of socioeconomic variables with dental pain suggested inequalities among the children in terms of oral health.

A Polymorphism in the MTRR Gene Is Associated with Early Childhood Caries and Underweight

Polymorphisms in genes encoding the enzymes involved in the metabolism of homocysteine, such as methionine synthase (MTR) and methionine synthase reductase (MTRR), play an important function in the metabolism of folic acid and vitamin B12. The present study aimed to evaluate the association of polymorphisms in genes MTR (rs1805087) and MTRR (rs1801394) with susceptibility of early childhood caries (ECC) and with body mass index alterations. A cross-sectional study was performed in 488 children aged from 2 to 6 years from 25 public day care centers in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Demographic data and oral health habits were obtained through a questionnaire. Anthropometric measurements and caries experience data were collected by 2 examiners (κ = 0.80). Genotyping of the selected polymorphisms was carried out by TaqMan real-time PCR using genomic DNA extracted from buccal cells. Allele and genotype frequencies were compared between groups with and without disease. The t test, χ2 test, odds ratio, Pearson correlation tests, and logistic regression analysis were used (p ≤ 0.05). The mean white spot lesion score was 1.18 (±2.57) in normal weight children and 2.50 (±3.87) in underweight children (p = 0.05). For MTRR polymorphisms, significant differences were observed for allele and genotype frequency distributions between caries-free and caries-affected children (p = 0.03 and 0.04 for allele and genotype frequencies, respectively) and in the genotype frequencies between normal weight and underweight children (p = 0.04). Our results suggest an association between underweight and ECC; in addition it is suggested that MTRR is a common genetic risk factor for ECC and underweight.

Prevalence of prematurely lost primary teeth in 5-10-year-old children in Thamar city, Yemen: A cross-sectional study

Objectives:

The premature loss of primary teeth is a potential risk factor for poor arch length development. Adequate arch length is important to the progression of the permanent teeth. Poor arch length can lead to crowding, ectopic eruption, or impaction of these teeth. This study is designed to assess the prevalence of premature loss of primary teeth in the 5-10-year-old age group.

Materials and Methods:

The study group included 185 children, that is, 91 boys and 94 girls. The dental examination was conducted by an experienced examiner under sufficient artificial light. Data including patient age and missing teeth were collected. Descriptive statistics were applied for data analysis, and from the results, Chi-square tests were used at a level of significance of 5% (P < 0.05).

Results:

We observed a 40.54% prevalence of premature loss of primary teeth with no statistically significant difference between genders. The lower left primary second molar was the most commonly absent tooth in the dental arch (13.5%).

Conclusion:

The status of premature loss of primary teeth was high in the study group. Implementation of efficient educational and preventive programs to promote oral health would help children maintain a healthy primary dentition and eventually prevent the disturbances in the future development of normal occlusion. Early detection and management of the space problems associated with the early loss of primary teeth would help in reducing malocclusion problems.

Risky Sexual Behaviors and Associated Factors among Jiga High School and Preparatory School Students, Amhara Region, Ethiopia

Background. Young people constitute a large number of population worldwide, and majority of this population group lives in developing countries. They are at high risk of engaging in risky sexual behaviors. These risk sexual behaviors predispose youths to several sexual and reproductive health problems like STIs, HIV, unwanted pregnancy, and abortion. So, this study was conducted to assess the magnitude of risky sexual behaviors and associated factors among Jiga high school and preparatory school students, northwest Ethiopia. Methodology. Institutional based cross-sectional study design was conducted among Jiga town high school and preparatory school students. A total of 311 students were included in the study. Systematic random sampling method was used to select study participants. Data was entered using EpiData version 3.1 and it was exported to SPSS version 22 for further analysis. Descriptive analysis and bivariate and multivariate analysis were also calculated to determine factors associated with risky sexual behavior. Result. Forty-eight (16%) of respondents reported that they had sexual intercourse. From those who start sex, 44 (14.7%) were involved in risky sexual behavior which could predispose them to sexual and reproductive health problems. More than half, 27 (56.3%), of respondents first sexual intercourse was before their eighteenth birthday. The mean age and SD of fist sexual initiation were 17.2 years old and 1.35 years, respectively. Factors associated with risky sexual behavior include respondents between the ages of 20 and 23 (AOR: 5, 95%, CI: 1.59-15.98), drinking alcohol (AOR: 2.48, 95% CI: 1.13-5.41), and having poor knowledge towards HIV/AIDS (AOR: 4.53, 95%, CI: 2.06-9.94). Conclusion. A large number of in-school youths are involved in risky sexual behaviors like early sexual initiation, having multiple sexual partners, inconsistence use of condom, and having sex with high risk partner (CSWs). Age of respondents, alcohol drinking, and poor knowledge towards HIV/AIDS were factors associated with risky sexual behavior. School and community based programs in reducing substance abuse among youths and increasing their knowledge towards HIV/AIDS are important.

Relationship between premature loss of primary teeth with oral hygiene, consumption of soft drinks, dental care, and previous caries experience

We determine the relationship between premature loss of primary teeth and oral hygiene, consumption of soft drinks, dental care and previous caries experience. This study focused on 833 Mexican schoolchildren aged 6–7. We performed an oral examination to determine caries experience and the simplified oral hygiene index. The dependent variable was the prevalence of at least one missing tooth (or indicated for extraction) of the primary dentition; this variable was coded as 0 = no loss of teeth and 1 = at least one lost primary tooth. The prevalence of at least one missing tooth was 24.7% (n = 206) (95% CI = 21.8–27.7). The variables that were associated with the prevalence of tooth loss (p < 0.05) included: the largest number of decayed teeth (OR = 1.11), the largest number of filled teeth (OR = 1.23), the worst oral hygiene (OR = 3.24), a lower frequency of brushing (OR = 1.60), an increased consumption of soda (OR = 1.89) and use of dental care (curative: OR = 2.83, preventive: OR = 1.93). This study suggests that the premature loss of teeth in the primary dentition is associated with oral hygiene, consumption of soft drinks, dental care and previous caries experience in Mexican schoolchildren. These data provide relevant information for the design of preventive dentistry programs.

Genetic polymorphisms of the sortase A gene and social-behavioural factors associated with caries in children: a case-control study

Background

Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) is the primary etiological agent of dental caries. Sortase is a transpeptidase that anchors several surface proteins to the S. mutans cell wall and has been shown to play a major role in cariogenicity. The purpose of this study was to explore the genetic polymorphisms of the sortase gene (srtA) and the social-behavioural factors associated with dental caries in children with S. mutans.

Methods

In this case–control study, 121 S. mutans strains were separately selected from caries-free children and high-severity caries children for sequencing of the srtA gene. Social and behavioural data were collected by self-administered questionnaires. Genomic DNA was extracted from S. mutans strains and amplified by PCR to obtain the srtA gene. The purified PCR products were sequenced and analysed for mutations with ABI Variant Reporter software. The distribution of missense mutations and the mean of social-behavioural factors were compared between the groups. A multiple logistic regression model was used to control for confounding factors.

Results

The mutation frequencies at loci 168 (P = 0.023) and 470 (P = 0.032) were significantly different between the groups. The best-fitting model showed that greater age, high frequencies of solid sugar consumption, prolonged breastfeeding, a high proportion of visible plaque, and S. mutans with a T at locus 168 of the srtA gene were associated with high-severity caries in children (P < 0.05). Children carrying a G at locus 168 of S. mutans had a decreased risk for high-severity caries (OR = 0.32, 95% CI = 0.12–0.86) compared with those carrying a T.

Conclusions

The present study suggested that the locus 168 missense mutation of the srtA gene may correlate with caries susceptibility in children with S. mutans. In addition, age, duration of breastfeeding, solid sugar consumption, and poor oral hygiene contributed to this complex disease.