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

Abstract

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.

Keywords: Dental caries; Vietnam; body mass index; related factors; schoolchildren.