Abstract

DIAS, Tiago  and  VIVEIROS, Isabel. Association between Dental Caries and Obesity in a Sample of the Pediatric Population in Vila Franca do Campo. Nutrícias [online]. 2014, n.23, pp.14-17. ISSN 2182-7230.

Introduction: The study of the relationship between dental caries and childhood obesity has been the target of significant interest, but the nature of their relationship is complex. The presence of a common factor, such as a diet high in sugar, may be the most acceptable theory to explain possible relationships between these two pathologies. Objectives: Study possible associations between Body Mass Index and the Dental Caries Index (DMFT) in the student population of Vila Franca do Campo, attending 1st grade. Methodology: A sample of 136 students from 1st grade, ages 6 to 8 years was the subject of a recreational and educational intervention for promoting oral health and healthy eating. The oral health screening was conducted by a dentist using as an indicator the dental caries index - DMFT. Anthropometric evaluation was made by a dietitian according to the ISAK methodology (International Standards for Anthropometric Assessment). Descriptive statistical analysis was based on the calculation of absolute and relative frequencies and averages and standard deviations. In the comparative studies we used the chi-square test (χ²), considering a significance level of 5%. Results: 44.9% of students had dental caries, while the prevalence of overweight and obesity was 15.4% and 11.8%, respectively. Analyzing the association between Body Mass Index classification and caries, it was found that in underweight or normal weight students, 54.5% (54) were free of caries and 45.5% (45) had caries; in overweight children, 61.9% (13) had no cavities and 38.1% (8) presented; and in obese students 50.0% (8) had no cavities and the other 50.0% (8) had caries (p: 0.751). Most cases of caries manifested in students from families with lower economic status. Conclusions: Although no association between obesity and tooth decay have been found, it remains vital to promote healthy diets that prevent these two diseases.

Keywords : Dental caries; Obesity; Underweight.

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