Relationship between Dietary Intake and Prevalence of Dental Caries among School Aged Girls (6-12 Years) in Al-Madinah Al-Munawarah

Dental caries is common in primary school children and represent a public health problem. Dietary intake is one of the most effective factors that cause the prevalence of dental caries among girls. The objective of this research was to find the most effective nutrients consumption that enhances the prevalence of dental caries among school aged girls in Al-Madinah Al-Munawarah. Caries status was assessed using the DMFT (Decay, Missing, Filled, Teeth (primary teeth)) index. Food intake (24 hour recall), anthropometric measurements and food history were determined. This study was a cross sectional survey. A total of 300 school girls aged 6-12 years attending primary schools in Al-Madinah Al-Munawarah, Saudi Arabia were the subjects. The results indicated the prevalence of dental caries among primary school girls. This was associated with high intake of macronutrients especially carbohydrates and decreased calcium intake. The results indicated no effect of dental caries on normal growth of students. The results showed that tooth decay was associated with increased consumption of sweets and soft drinks. The linear association of dental caries with sweet, soft drinks, macronutrients consumption along with decreased calcium intake may be the most effective reasons for prevalence of dental caries in girls of Al-Madinah Al-Munawarah.