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

Abstract

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. To determine the factors related to dental caries and to evaluate the association between dental caries and nutritional status in 10-year-old schoolchildren. 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. 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). Dental caries was associated with school location, dental-related behaviours and nutritional status in 10-year-old schoolchildren in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.