Abstract:
Introduction. Early childhood caries affects millions of
children each year. The frequency of this condition is
increasing, and the most disadvantaged children are those
who come from low socio-economic families. There is a
limited understanding of the interaction of parental
knowledge and behavioral and socioeconomic factors that
influence the onset of this condition.
Aim of the study. Analysis of socio-economic and
behavioral factors related to oral and food hygiene and
their relationship with the development of early childhood
caries.
Material and methods. A group of 620 patients aged 2 to 6
years was selected and referred to the University Dental
Clinic. The children were examined and the value of the
index of frequency and activity of dental caries was
calculated. A questionnaire for parents was used to collect
data on the socio-economic characteristics of patients and
their families and the behavioral factors of oral and food
hygiene.
Results.There was a direct relationship between low
socioeconomic status and the intensity of early childhood
caries in children (p=0.04). The intensity of dental caries
was also directly related to the parents' behaviors related to
the childs oral hygiene and food hygiene (p < 0.01).
Conclusion. Socio-economic status is directly related to
poor oral hygiene behaviors and cariogenic nutrition. These
in turn were related to a higher frequency and intensity of
early childhood caries.
