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Published on: March 29, 2018
Risk factors for early childhood caries: a case-control study
R Mahesh1, M S Muthu, S J L Rodrigues
1Department of Paedodontics and Preventive Dentistry, Saveetha University, Chennai, India, maheshpedo@gmail.com.
Summary
Early childhood caries (ECC) in Indian preschoolers is linked to being the firstborn, frequent snacking, bottled water, excessive toothpaste use, unemployed mothers, and daycare. These factors significantly increase the risk of developing ECC.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Public Health
Background:
- Early childhood caries (ECC) poses a significant oral health challenge globally.
- Identifying risk factors is crucial for targeted prevention strategies in preschool populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the specific risk factors associated with early childhood caries (ECC) in Indian preschool children.
- To provide data for developing effective preventive measures against ECC in this demographic.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study involving 380 preschool children.
- Children were categorized into cases (ECC, def > 0) and controls (caries-free, def = 0).
- Statistical analysis included chi-squared tests and multiple logistic regression.
Main Results:
- Key risk factors for ECC included being the firstborn child (OR 4.18), snacking >3 times/day (OR 2.78), using bottled drinking water (OR 4.58), and using >smear toothpaste (OR 4.99).
- Maternal unemployment (OR 3.45) and the child's day care person (OR 8.49) were also significant risk factors.
Conclusions:
- The study identified several modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors for ECC in Indian preschoolers.
- Findings highlight the importance of parental education on diet, hygiene practices, and water sources.
- The role of the mother's employment status and childcare arrangements warrants further attention in ECC prevention.
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