Associations between risk factors, including approximal contact types and dental caries in children from low-income families. Pilot study

Abstract

Background
Dental caries remains a prevalent issue, particularly in children from low-income families, where social, environmental, and behavioral risk factors contribute to poor oral health outcomes. Approximal contacts between teeth are often sites where caries develop, but the relationship between different contact types and caries progression in this population remains understudied. This pilot study aims to explore the associations between various risk factors, including approximal contact types, and the development of dental caries in children from low-income families.

Materials and Methods

This cross-sectional pilot study included 100 children aged 6–12 years from low-income households. Data were collected through oral health examinations, parent questionnaires, and a review of dental records. Approximal contact types were classified into three categories: open, closed, and tight contacts, based on clinical examination and radiographs. The prevalence of dental caries was assessed using the DMFT (Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth) index. Additional risk factors, such as oral hygiene practices, dietary habits, and parental education, were also examined. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data, and logistic regression was applied to assess associations between risk factors and dental caries.

Results
Of the 100 children, 72% had at least one carious lesion, with a mean DMFT score of 4.2 ± 1.5. Children with tight approximal contacts had a significantly higher prevalence of caries (84%) compared to those with open (62%) and closed contacts (70%) (p < 0.05). Poor oral hygiene practices were reported in 58% of the children, and 67% of the parents had low educational attainment. The logistic regression model identified tight approximal contacts (OR: 1.8, 95% CI: 1.2–2.7), frequent sugar consumption (OR: 2.5, 95% CI: 1.6–3.8), and inadequate tooth brushing (OR: 2.0, 95% CI: 1.4–2.9) as significant predictors of dental caries.

Conclusion
This pilot study suggests that tight approximal contacts, combined with poor oral hygiene and dietary habits, are significant risk factors for dental caries in children from low-income families. Early interventions focusing on oral hygiene education and dietary modifications, along with regular dental check-ups, may help reduce the prevalence of caries in this vulnerable population. Further large-scale studies are required to validate these findings.