Yuanita L. Rachmawati, Aufa Y. Rahmah, Nahira F. Azzahra, Salsabila N. Ananda, Bebbyto AR Elfath, Zamros YM Yusof
Aim: The study aimed to assess the association of caries with age, gender, parental education, body mass index (BMI), and toothbrushing behavior in children. Materials and methods: This observational study was conducted among children aged 6–13 years in randomly selected elementary schools, with a sample size of 696. Students who were given parental permission were given a validated questionnaire. The questionnaire consisted of six items, four of which pertained to sociodemographics, and one each to frequency and duration of toothbrushing. Students were measured for height, weight, and decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMF-T) index by four dentists. The data were analyzed descriptively, bivariate, and multivariate. Results: A total of 850 agreed to participate. The average DMF-T index for all respondents was 2.18, with the highest average in women (2.49 ± 2.29). Fathers with formal college education tend to have children with lower DMF-T scores. Children with a duration of brushing 1 minute have a higher percentage of caries (74.10%). The highest percentage of BMI classification was severely underweight (63.53%). Children aged >10 years had a 4.06 times risk of caries (AOR = 4.06; 95% CI: 2.80–5.89). Girls were 1.56 times more at risk of caries (AOR = 1.56; 95% CI: 1.12–2.16). Overweight had a 25% risk of caries (AOR = 0.25; 95% CI: 0.07–0.82). Conclusion: Most participants were severely underweight. The highest prevalence of caries was found in girls aged >10 years, with short duration of brushing, low father’s education level, and underweight. Age, sex, and overweight were associated risk factors for caries. Clinical significance: Caries and obesity are conditions that can affect the growth and development of children. The relationship between nutritional status and tooth decay is complex. The results of this study provide an overview indicating that obesity is one of the risk factors that contributes to the occurrence of caries. © The Author(s). 2025 Open Access.
Department of Community and Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang, Indonesia; Department of Community Oral Health and Clinical Prevention, Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
