BMI and clinical consequences of untreated dental caries in 3 to 6 years old children

Abstract

Dental caries and their consequences are known to impact the oral health related quality of life in children. Considering the relationship between refined carbohydrates and odontogenic infections, it is hypothesized that nutritional status and oral health are closely associated. The present study was undertaken to assess the relationship of body mass index (BMI) and odontogenic diseases. Sample consisted of 260 children (3-6 year-old).Dental Caries status assessed using WHO criteria (1997) and prevalence of clinical consequences of dental caries was assessed using PUFA/pufa scale (2010) . Anthropometric measurements assessed included; height measured in meters using height chart and weight in kilograms using portable weighing scale. The BMI (Body Mass Index) was calculated using formula Weight (Kg) ÷Height (meter). The results of our study showed no statistically significant relationship between body mass index (BMI) with either dmft/ dmfs or pufa.