Prevalence of gingivitis and associated factors in 619-year-old children in Rudraprayag District, Uttarakhand

Abstract

Background: Gingivitis is the most prevalent oral disease among children with a strong influence of social gradients. To date, its studies in the Uttarakhand state are scarce and inconclusive. This study aimed to investigate the epidemiologic parameters of gingivitis and its association with sociodemographic and clinical risk factors in the 6–19-year-old children in Uttarakhand state. Materials and Methods: Cross-sectional data from 1400 children 6–19 years old from Rudraprayag district, Uttarakhand, were analyzed. Sociodemographic status and oral hygiene habits were assessed by questionnaires answered by parents and children. Oral health status and anthropometric examination of each participant were also conducted. Multivariable logistic regression modeling was used to evaluate relationships between gingivitis and risk factors. Results: The prevalence of gingivitis was 20.0% of which 5.4% of children had severe gingivitis affecting gums around more than 6 teeth. Older children (>12 years), children with good oral hygiene habits, and normally aligned teeth with Angle's Class 1 occlusion displayed better gingival conditions, whereas, poor Socioeconomic status had a negative effect on gingival health. Conclusions: As compared to other states of the country, the prevalence of gingivitis was lower in Uttarakhand. The children belonging to lower socioeconomic status and who do not brush daily were more frequently affected by gingivitis. Children with maligned teeth (crowding or spacing), and Angle's Class 2 and 3 occlusions had a high prevalence of gingivitis.

Keywords

• gingivitis
• malocclusion
• oral hygiene practices
• sociodemographic factors