The Relationship between BMI and DMFT/dmft among 7-11 Year-old Children in Yazd

Abstract

Introduction: Two important indices for evaluation of children’s health include BMI and DMFT/dmft. This study was designed to assess the relationship between these two indices among 7-11year-old children in Yazd. Methods: The sampling technique used in the present study was a cluster random sampling (A total of 400 pupils aged 7-11 ).In this cross-sectional study BMI and DMFT/dmft were measured and the relationship between these two indices was evaluated. The effect of such factors as snacks, parent’s education level and frequency of tooth brushing on dental caries score was evaluated. Data were analyzed via McNemar test. Results: Mean of DMFT/dmft was 5.09 ± 1.95. Eighteen percent of children were at risk of overweight or were overweight. Children at risk of overweight and overweight children had a higher frequency of DMFT/dmft≥ 5)P<0.001. Consumption of snacks and frequency of toothbrushing had a significant effect on this Index. Conclusion: This study showed a positive relationship between BMI and dental caries score, so that children with higher BMI had a higher DMFT/dmft. In Further research, this relationship should be investigated by longitudinal studies

Keywords

• BMI
• Diet
• DMFT/Dmft
• Tooth decay