Association of Alimentary Factors and Nutritional Status with Caries in Children of Leon, Mexico.

PURPOSE: To determine the association between types of food consumed, nutritional status (BMI) and caries in schoolchildren.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was performed with 224 schoolchildren 6 to 12 years of age. DMFT/ dmft indices, level of oral hygiene, nutritional status as quantified by BMI and types of food consumed were determined in all participants. Data were analysed using multiple linear regression with significance set at p < 0.05.

RESULTS: Caries prevalence was 36%. In the multiple linear regression analysis adjusted for BMI, variables related to a higher number of caries were younger age and lower intake of vitamin D, calcium and fiber, with higher consumption of phosphorous and carbohydrates (R2 = 0.30; p < 0.0001 for the model). Sweetened softdrinks and chewy candy were risk factors for higher caries prevalence, while consuming milk and carrots were protectors.

CONCLUSION: Caries in schoolchildren is highly prevalent in this community and is related to younger age and lower intake of vitamin D, calcium and fiber, but a higher consumption of phosphorous and carbohydrates. No relationship was found between caries and nutritional status.