Association between body mass index, diet and dental caries in Grade 6 boys in Medina, Saudi Arabia

The prevalence of obesity is increasing in Saudi Arabia and although caries is associated with obesity, this association has not been investigated in Medina. This study aimed to determine the association between dental caries, body mass index [BMI] and dietary habits of 12-year-old boys from four geographically distinct schools in Medina. Mean BMI was 22.17 kg/m[2] [ +/- 5.15]; 41% had normal BMI, 25% were overweight and 30% were obese. The mean Decayed, Missing and Filled Teeth [DMFT] score was 1.46 [ +/- 2.04]. Those in the normal BMI range had a significantly higher prevalence of caries [57%] and DMFT score [1.92] compared with the overweight and obese groups [P < 0.05]. These differences remained significant after controlling for possible confounders via linear regression. Mean BMI was significantly lower in boys with severe compared with mild or no caries. Normal and underweight participants had an almost 2 times greater risk of developing caries compared with their overweight and obese counterparts. The children had poor dietary habits and there were no significant associations between dietary variables and caries

Validity and reliability of the Arabic short version of the child oral health-related quality of life questionnaire [CPQ 11–14] in Medina, Saudi Arabia

The Arabic version of the Child Perception Questionnaire for assessing oral health-related quality of life in 11–14 year olds [CPQ 11–14] has been previously validated. This study tested the validity and reliability of the short version of the Arabic CPQ 11–14 in the general population of Medina, Saudi Arabia. A total of 268 schoolchildren completed the questionnaire and were examined to determine the prevalence of caries and malocclusion. The mean total score was 8.53 [SD 8.18], and 7% of children scored zero. There was a significant association between malocclusion and oral symptoms and between DMFT score and functional limitations. The test–retest reliability [0.78] and Cronbach alpha [0.82] were excellent. The construct validity was acceptable for oral health [P = 0.37] and overall well-being [P = 0.40]. The Arabic version of the short form CPQ 11–14 was reliable and valid for this general population of children

Oral health status of 12-year-old male schoolchildren in Medina, Saudi Arabia

Studies from Saudi Arabia have reported that the prevalence of dental caries among children is relatively high compared with other developing countries The aim was to determine the oral hygiene status and significant caries [SiC] index of 12-year-old males in Medina . In a cross-sectional, analytical study 360 students participated from 4 boys' schools. Dental caries, plaque, gingivitis, fluorosis and malocclusion were recorded using standard methods and indices. The mean DMFT score was 1.53 [SD 1.88]. Caries prevalence was low [57.2%] but the mean SiC index was relatively high [3.63 [SD 1.66]]. The prevalences of plaque and gingivitis were high [82.8% and 70.8% respectively]. Lower molars had the highest rate of caries. No children presented with dental fluorosis and 82.5% had a class I jaw relationship. Oral hygiene awareness programmes at schools, together with brushing and flossing programmes, are recommended in order to maintain and improve the oral health of young children in Medina