Incidence of Dental Caries and Associated Factors in the School Period in a Municipality in Southern Brazil

Abstract Objective: To estimate the incidence of dental caries and associated factors in the school period from six/seven to ten years of age. Material and Methods: A longitudinal study involving 168 children was followed up between 2015 and 2019 in the municipality of Palhoça, Brazil. The dependent variable was the caries incidence rate in the mixed dentition. The independent variables included information regarding demographic and socioeconomic status. Multivariate analyzes were carried out using Poisson Regression with a robust estimator. Variables with p <0.20 in the bivariate analysis were included in the adjusted model. Relative risks were estimated, as well as 95% confidence intervals. Results: Of 168 followed schoolchildren, 32 developed the disease, providing an incidence rate of 19.0%. Female children had a 10% higher risk [RR = 1.10 (95% CI 1.03; 1.18)] of developing caries than males. Also, children born from fathers with ≤ 8 years of schooling at baseline had a 9% higher risk [RR = 1.09 (95% CI 1.01; 1.16)] of developing dental caries compared to fathers with higher education. Conclusion: The incidence of dental caries in a four-year period was 19.0%. Females and children born from fathers with a lower level of education showed higher incidence rates.

Factors associated with dental cavity in children aged six to 36 months old, in Salvador-BA / Fatores associados à cárie dentária em crianças de seis a 36 meses, em Salvador-BA

Abstract Objectives: to analyze the factors associatedwith dental cavity in early childhood. Methods: this is a cross-sectional study on oral health condition of 535 children aged between six and 36 months old, at Family Health Units, in Salvador-BA. Information was collected on socioeconomic conditions, mother and child's health, eating and oral hygiene habits, and oral examination. Results: the prevalence of dental cavity was 13.64% (CI95%=11.44 -15.84) and the factors associated were: child's age, number of rooms in the house, "Bolsa Família" (Family Welfare) benefit, prenatal consultations, birth weight and exclusive breastfeeding. Conclusions: socioeconomic conditions strongly influenced oral health, as well as prenatal care and breastfeeding. To prevent childhood cavities, it is pertinent to invest in intersectoral actions and systematized programs, including the medical and nursing staff, as these actions are essential for integral care for the child's health and quality of life

Resumo Objetivos: analisar os fatores associados à cárie dentária na primeira infância. Métodos: trata-se de um estudo transversal das condições de saúde oral de 535 crianças entre seis e 36 meses, em Unidades de Saúde da Família, em Salvador-BA. Foram coletadas informações sobre as condições socioeconômicas, saúde da mãe e da criança, hábitos alimentares e de higiene oral e exame oral. Resultados: a prevalência de cárie dentária foi de 13,64% (IC95%=11,44-15,84) e os fatores associados foram: idade da criança, número de cômodos da casa, benefício "Bolsa Família", consultas de pré-natal, peso ao nascer e aleitamento materno exclusivo. Conclusões: as condições socioeconômicas influenciam fortemente na saúde oral, bem como o pré-natal e o aleitamento materno. Para prevenir cárie na infância, é pertinente investir em ações intersetoriais e programas sistematizados, incluindo a equipe médica e de enfermagem, pois estas ações são imprescindíveis para o cuidado integral à saúde da criança e qualidade de vida

Relación entre el perfil epidemiológico y nivel socioeconómico de la población que demanda atención en la Cátedra de Odontología Integral Niños / Relationship between the epidemiological profile and socioeconomic level of the population requiring care at the Children´s Comprehensive Dentistry Chair

Se identificó el perfil epidemiológico y se caracterizó la situación de la población en base al Nivel Socio-Económico (NSE) asociado al estado dentario y se es-tablecieron las zonas geográficas de pacientes que asistieron a la Cátedra Odontología Integral Niños (COIN) de FOUBA durante el año 2019. La muestra total se conformó con 541 niños de 9,2±3,3 años; masculi-nos 51,0%. La segmentación de los estratos sociales dio como resultado que del total de pacientes, el 33,3% perteneció a Clase Baja D2/E, el 39,2% a Clase Baja Superior D1, el 22,4% a Clase Media Baja C3, el 4% a Clase Media Alta C2 y el 1,1% a Clase Alta ABC1. La mayor demanda de atención provino de las dos clases más bajas de la pirámide social, aunque se trata de un servicio arancelado. Los indicadores del estado den-tario ceod, ceos, CPOD y CPOS, indicaron que los niños de menor posición socioeconómica presentaron los índices más altos. La mayor concurrencia provino de la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires (52%), respecto a los pacientes concurrentes del Gran Buenos Aires (37%), el 80% provino de la zona Oeste y Sur (AU)

The epidemiological profile was identified, and the situation of the population was characterized based on Socio-Economic Status (SES) associated with their dental state. Geographical areas of patients who attended the FOUBA Children's Comprehensive Dentistry Chair during 2019 were established. The total sample consisted of 541 children aged 9.2±3.3 years; males 51.0%. The segmentation of the social strata resulted in 33.3% belonging to Low-Class D2/E, 39.2% to Upper Lower-Class D1, 22.4% to Lower Middle-Class C3, 4% to Upper Middle-Class C2, and 1.1% to Upper-Class ABC1. The largest demand for care came from the two lowest classes of the social pyramid, even though it is a fee-based service. The indicators of dental status dmft, dmfs, DMFT and DMFS, showed that children coming from the lowest socio-economic position presented the highest rate of occurrence. The highest attendance came from the City of Buenos Aires (52%), compared to patients from Buenos Aires suburbs (37%), of which 80% were from the Western and Southern suburbs (AU)

Oral disorders among older Chileans: prevalence, incidence, and years lived with disability / Prevalência, incidência e anos vividos com incapacidade por doenças bucais no Chile

OBJECTIVE: Prior epidemiological surveys revealed that Chile experiences a high burden of oral diseases. However, no prior study has reported estimates of untreated dental caries, periodontitis, and edentulism over a three-decade period for the country. Using estimates of the Global Burden of Diseases Study (GBD) 2019, the objective of this study is to report the trends of prevalence, incidence, and years-lived with disability (YLDs) due to untreated dental caries, periodontitis, and edentulism in Chilean older adults between 1990 and 2019. METHODS: Estimates of prevalence, incidence, and YLDs due to dental caries, periodontitis, and edentulism were produced for Chile, by age and sex, between 1990 and 2019, using Dismod-MR 2.1. Trends of oral disorders were analyzed using generalized linear regression models applying the Prais-Winsten method. RESULTS: Untreated dental caries and periodontal disease showed an increase in prevalence and YLDs, whereas edentulism prevalence, incidence, and YLDs decreased in all older adults age groups. The incidence of dental caries decreased in the younger groups and increased in the older age groups; while the incidence of periodontal disease increased in the younger and decreased in the older age groups. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the burden of oral diseases in older Chileans increased between 1990 and 2019. This was particularly relevant for untreated caries and periodontal disease. Future estimates of oral diseases burden in Chile require concerted efforts to produce national health surveys that incorporate oral diseases metrics. These estimates are essential to inform policy formulation, implementation and evaluation. (AU)

OBJETIVO: Pesquisas epidemiológicas anteriores revelaram que o Chile apresenta uma elevada carga de doenças bucais. No entanto, nenhum estudo anterior relatou estimativas de cárie dentária não tratada, periodontite e edentulismo ao longo de um período de três décadas para o país. Usando estimativas do Global Burden of Diseases Study (GBD) 2019, o objetivo deste estudo é relatar as tendências de prevalência, incidência e anos vividos com incapacidade (YLDs) devido a cárie dentária não tratada, periodontite e edentulismo em idosos chilenos entre 1990 e 2019. METODOLOGIA: Estimativas de prevalência, incidência e YLDs devido à cárie dentária, periodontite e edentulismo foram produzidas para o Chile, por idade e sexo, entre 1990 e 2019, usando o Dismod-MR 2.1. Tendências de distúrbios bucais foram analisadas usando modelos de regressão linear generalizada aplicando o método Prais-Winsten. RESULTADOS: A cárie dentária não tratada e a doença periodontal mostraram um aumento na prevalência e nos YLDs, enquanto a prevalência, incidência e YLDs do edentulismo diminuíram em todas as faixas etárias de idosos. A incidência de cárie dentária diminuiu nos grupos mais jovens e aumentou nos grupos etários mais velhos; enquanto a incidência de periodontite aumentou nos grupos mais jovens e diminuiu nos grupos etários mais velhos. CONCLUSÕES: No geral, a carga de doenças bucais em idosos chilenos aumentou entre 1990 e 2019. Isso foi particularmente relevante para cárie não tratada e periodontite. As estimativas futuras da carga de doenças bucais no Chile exigem esforços concentrados para produzir pesquisas nacionais de saúde que incorporem métricas de doenças bucais. Essas estimativas são essenciais para informar a formulação, implementação e avaliação de políticas. (AU)

A multilevel analysis model for dental caries determinants in independently-living elderly

To evaluate the prevalence of untreated caries and its association with biological, individual, and environmental variables in independently-living elderly people. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 72 elderly (≥60 years) patients of a university dental clinic in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. Sociodemographic data, systemic diseases, medications, and free sugar intake were collected. Visible plaque, Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT), and Decayed and Filled Root (DFR) indexes were assessed through clinical examination. Unstimulated saliva was collected to determine salivary flow, pH, and buffering capacity. Descriptive analysis and multilevel logistic regression analysis were performed following a dental caries theoretical model (p <0.05, 95% CI). Results: The mean DMFT and DFR were 24.44 (SD=4.59) and 3.21 (SD=2.93), respectively. The prevalence of untreated caries was 61.11%. In the adjusted multilevel regression model involving 1639 teeth, untreated dental caries was significantly associated with the presence of biofilm (OR = 1.84; 95% CI: 1.24­2.74), salivary buffering capacity (OR = 0.87; 95% CI: 0.77­0.99) and per capita income (OR = 0.06; 95% CI: 0.004­0.74). Conclusion: The experience of dental caries was widespread among independently-living elderly patients, and its variability was best explained by the presence of biofilm, reduced salivary buffering capacity, and low per capita income. A comprehensive assessment is needed of the biological, individual, and environmental factors related to the presence of dental caries in independently-living elderly people

Prevalence of Dental Caries in 5-Year-Old Children in a Northeast Brazilian Capital

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of dental caries in children aged five years in a Northeast Brazilian Capital (Fortaleza, CE) and its association with sociodemographic conditions, presence of malocclusion, and gingival bleeding. Material and Methods: This is a quantitative, descriptive, observational, and cross-sectional study carried out in a representative sample of 3,582 children aged five years in the city of Fortaleza-CE. Data was collected in public and private schools distributed in the city's Regional Health Coordination (CORES). Each of the six CORES worked with five field teams, participating in inter-examiner training and calibration with a final KAPPA coefficient of 0.87. Data were collected using a clinical form adapted from the SB Brasil 2010 questionnaire on sociodemographic conditions. The indices of dmft, need for treatment, malocclusion, and gingival bleeding were used for oral health conditions. The data were submitted to Pearson's Chi-square or Fisher's Exact tests, and the variables that show values of p<0.05 were submitted to a multinomial logistic regression model (forward stepwise model). Results: 57.1% of children were caries-free, and the mean dmft-d was 1.65 (1.65±2.65). CORES I and VI were the ones that presented the most significant association with caries attacks in all primary molars. The highest percentage of caries in the 2nd upper molar (60.6%), 1st lower molar (59%), and 2nd lower molar (58.8%) were found in children with normal occlusion. There was a significant association between gingival bleeding and caries in all molars and the need for treatment. Conclusion: These results allow us to observe that the prevalence of dental caries in 5-year-old children in Fortaleza is low, although with a tendency to increase.

Differences in Early Childhood Caries Status on Parental Stress Levels and Socioeconomic Status in Makassar City, Indonesia, During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract Objective: To analyze the differences in early childhood caries status on parental stress levels and socioeconomic status in Makassar City, Indonesia, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Material and Methods: This type of analytical observational study with a cross-sectional design was conducted in North Rantepao, Toraja City, South Sulawesi Province, Indonesia. The research subjects of this study were parents who met the criteria, were willing to participate in the study, and had children aged 6-17 years. The questionnaire instrument with the criteria for assessing children's dental and oral health was assessed based on parents' perceptions. Each item is rated on a scale from 1 (never) to 5 (always). Then the total score was divided into three categories, namely low (score 3-6), moderate (score 7-10), and high (score 11-15). Comparative test analysis using Chi-Square test. Results: Parents with high-stress levels had more children with poor oral health. There is a significant difference according to the level of stress and socioeconomic status of the parents. Conclusion: There is a significant difference between caries status in early childhood based on socioeconomic status and parental stress level (AU).

Relação da condição de cárie da criança com experiência de cárie da mãe / Relationship between the child's caries status and the mother's caries experience

Objetivo: verificar a relação da condição de cárie da criança com a experiência autopercebida de cárie da mãe através de um estudo observacional transversal. Métodos: O estudo foi realizado na Faculdade de Odontologia da Universidade Federal de Pelotas com crianças entre 8 e 11 anos e suas mães. A amostra contou com 105 pares mãe-filho. Os responsáveis responderam um questionário relacionado à situação socioeconômica e demográfica, a mãe respondeu sobre sua saúde bucal: experiência de cárie (restauração ou dente cariado e perda dentária por cárie). Nas crianças os desfechos foram avaliados através de exame clínico com a soma de dentes decíduos e permanentes cariados, perdidos e obturados (ceod/CPOD) e para severidade de cárie foi utilizado Significant Caries Index (SiC), ceod/CPOD≥3. Para testar a associação entre as variáveis relacionadas à mãe e o desfecho severidade de cárie foi realizado o teste Qui-quadrado, para média de cárie na criança (ceod/CPOD) foi utilizado o Teste Mann-Whitney. Resultados: Com relação à severidade de cárie não foi encontrada associação estatisticamente significante. A média do ceod/CPOD foi quase três vezes maior nas crianças cujas mães relataram que haviam tido ou estavam com algum dente cariado ou restaurado em função da cárie em comparação àquelas que não relataram esta experiência. As mães mais jovens apresentaram filhos com maior média de cárie do que as mães mais velhas. Conclusão: Entre as crianças atendidas neste serviço existe uma relação de uma maior média de cárie nas crianças com cujas mães tem ou tiveram experiência de cárie e mais jovens.(AU)

Objective: to verify the relationship between the child's caries condition and the mother's self-perceived caries experience through a cross-sectional observational study. Methods: The study was carried out at the Faculty of Dentistry of the Federal University of Pelotas with children between 8 and 11 years old and their mothers. The sample had 105 mother-child pairs. The guardians answered a questionnaire related to the socioeconomic and demographic situation, the mother answered about her oral health: caries experience (restoration or decayed tooth and tooth loss due to caries). In children, the outcomes were evaluated through clinical examination with the sum of decayed, missing and filled deciduous and permanent teeth (DMFT/DMFT) and for caries severity we used the Significant Caries Index (SiC), DMFT/DMFT≥3. To test the association between the variables related to the mother and the outcome of caries severity, the Chi-square test was performed, for mean caries in children (dmft/DMFT) the Mann-Whitney Test was used. Results: Regarding caries severity, no statistically significant association was found. The mean dmft/DMFT was almost three times higher in children whose mothers reported that they had had or had a decayed or restored tooth due to caries compared to those who did not report this experience. Younger mothers had children with a higher average of caries than older mothers. Conclusion: Among the children assisted in this service, there is a relation of a higher average of caries in children whose mothers have or had caries experience and younger.(AU)

Persistem iniquidades sociais na distribuição da cárie dentária em adolescentes maranhenses? Contribuições de um estudo de base populacional / Do social inequalities persist in the distribution of dental caries in adolescents from Maranhão? Contributions of a population-based study

Resumo O objetivo foi analisar a associação de fatores socioeconômicos com a prevalência de cárie dentária em adolescentes de São Luís, Maranhão, para responder se as iniquidades sociais persistem na distribuição desta doença. Este é um estudo transversal aninhado a uma coorte prospectiva. Incluímos 2.413 adolescentes de 18-19 anos, avaliados em 2016 (2º seguimento). O desfecho foi a ocorrência de dentes com cárie dentária não tratada (sim ou não), avaliada pelo índice CPO-D. Características socioeconômicas e demográficas foram as variáveis independentes. Foram realizadas análises estatísticas descritivas e de regressão de Poisson, calculando-se razões de prevalência (RPs) brutas e ajustadas (alpha=5%). Pertencer às classes econômicas C (RP=1,23; IC95%:1,11-1,37) ou D-E (RP=1,48; IC95%: 1,32-1,65), estar casado/morar com companheiro (RP=1,22; IC95%:1,07-1,39), ter pais separados (RP=1,11; IC95%1,03-1,19) e maior número de pessoas na residência (RP=1,05; IC95%:1,03-1,07) foram associadas a maior prevalência de cárie dentária. Apesar da implementação da Política Nacional de Saúde Bucal, as iniquidades sociais em saúde bucal de adolescentes persistem. É fundamental que o modelo de atenção à saúde vigente busque a reorientação das estratégias de educação em saúde, direcionando-as a populações vulneráveis.

Abstract This study aimed to analyze the association of socioeconomic factors with the prevalence of dental caries in adolescents from São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil, to answer whether social inequalities persist in distributing this disease. This is a cross-sectional study nested in a prospective cohort. We included 2,413 adolescents aged 18-19 years evaluated in the 2016 second follow-up. The outcome was teeth with untreated dental caries (yes or no) assessed by the DMFT index. Socioeconomic and demographic characteristics were the independent variables. Descriptive statistical and Poisson regression analyses were performed, calculating crude and adjusted prevalence ratios (PRs) (alpha=5%). Belonging to economic classes C (PR=1.23; 95% CI: 1.11-1.37) or D-E (PR=1.48; 95% CI: 1.32-1.65), being married/living with a partner (PR=1.22; 95% CI: 1.07-1.39), having separated parents (PR=1.11; 95% CI 1.03-1.19) and a greater number of people in the household (PR=1.05; 95% CI: 1.03-1.07) were associated with a higher prevalence of dental caries. Social inequalities in adolescent oral health persist despite the implementation of the National Oral Health Policy. The current health care model should seek to reorient health education strategies, targeting them at vulnerable populations.

Household food insecurity, dental caries and oral-health-related quality of life in Brazilian Indigenous adults / Insegurança alimentar domiciliar, cárie dentária e qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde bucal em Indígenas adultos brasileiros

Abstract Food insecurity is a complex phenomenon that affects the health and wellbeing of vulnerable families. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between household food insecurity, dental caries, oral health-related quality of life, and social determinants of health among Indigenous adults. A cross-sectional study was conducted among Kaingang adults aged 35-44 years old from the Guarita Indigenous Land, Brazil. Food insecurity was assessed through the EBIA scale. Dental caries was assessed using the DMFT index. Participants answered the OHIP-14 questionnaire and a structured interview. Descriptive and multivariate analyzes using Poisson regression models were performed. The final sample included 107 adults from 97 households. Approximately 95% lived in food insecure families. Severe food insecurity was present in 58% of the households. The phenomenon was associated to the Bolsa Família benefit, household size, and greater perception of oral health impacts on quality of life. The high number of families affected by food insecurity reveals the social vulnerability of the Kaingang people. Food insecurity in Kaingangs adults is associated to oral health perception and social determinants of health.

Resumo Insegurança alimentar é um fenômeno complexo que afeta a saúde e o bem-estar de famílias vulneráveis. Este estudo objetivou investigar a relação entre insegurança alimentar domiciliar, cárie dentária, qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde bucal, e determinantes sociais de saúde entre indígenas adultos. Foi conduzido um estudo transversal com adultos Kaingang entre 35-44 anos da Terra Indígena Guarita, Brasil. Insegurança alimentar foi avaliada pela escala EBIA. Cárie dentária foi avaliada pelo índice CPOD. Participantes responderam o questionário OHIP-14 e uma entrevista estruturada. Foram realizadas análises descritivas e multivariadas usando modelos de regressão de Poisson. A amostra incluiu 107 adultos Kaingang de 97 domicílios. Aproximadamente 95% dos participantes viviam em famílias com insegurança alimentar. Insegurança alimentar grave esteve presente em 58% dos domicílios. O fenômeno foi associado ao Bolsa Família, densidade familiar e percepção dos impactos da saúde bucal na qualidade de vida. O alto número de famílias afetadas pela insegurança alimentar revela a vulnerabilidade social do povo Kaingang. Insegurança alimentar em adultos Kaingang está associada à percepção da saúde bucal e determinantes sociais da saúde.

Influence of breastfeeding duration on the incidence of dental caries in preschoolers: a cohort study / Influência da duração da amamentação na incidência de cárie dentária em pré-escolares: um estudo de coorte

Abstract Objectives: investigate the association between breastfeeding duration and the incidence of severe caries in preschoolers. Methods: a cohort study was conducted with 132 pairs of mothers and children in the city of Diamantina, Brazil. Data collection was performed in 2 moments: when the children were between two and three years of age (baseline- 2013/2014) and after three years (T1-2016/2017). In both moments, children were evaluated for dental caries (International Caries Detection and Assessment System - ICDAS) and a questionnaire was administered to the mothers addressing socioeconomic aspects and thee habits of children. The outcome evaluated was the incidence of severe caries (Dentin caries - ICDAS Codes 5 and 6). Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, chi-squared test and Poisson hierarchical regression with robust variance. Results: children who breastfed for more than 24 months (RR = 2.24 CI95%= 1.23-4.08), those whose parents were separated (RR = 1.73 CI95%= 1.11-2.69), and those with estab-lished/severe caries (RR = 2.74 CI95%= 1.37-5.49) at baseline were at greater risk of incidence of severe caries after three years. Conclusion: breastfeeding for more than 24 months is a risk factor for incidence of severe caries. In addition, family structure and established or severe baseline caries were associated.

Resumo Objetivos: investigar a associação entre a duração da amamentação e a incidência de cárie grave em pré-escolares. Métodos: foi realizado um estudo de coorte com 132 pares de mães e crianças de Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brasil. As crianças foram avaliadas em dois momentos: dois e três anos de idade (baseline-2013/2014) e após três anos (T1- 2016/2017). Dados socioeconómicos e relativos aos hábitos das criançasforam obtidos por meio de entrevistas com as mães e a presença de cárie dentária foi diagnosticada segundo o protocolo "International Caries Detection and Assessment System - ICDAS". O desfecho foi a incidência de cárie grave (cárie em dentina - códigos ICDAS 5 e 6). Para análise dos dados empregou-se regressão hierárquica de Poisson com variância robusta. Resultados: crianças que amamentaram por mais de 24 meses (RR = 2,24 IC95%= 1,234,08), cujos pais viviam separados no baseline (RR = 1,73 IC95%= 1,11-2,69) e aquelas com cárie estabelecida ou grave no baseline (RR = 2, 74 IC950%= 1,37-5,49) estavam em maior risco de incidência de cárie grave após 3 anos. Conclusão: a amamentação por mais de 24 meses foi um fator de risco para a incidência de cárie dentária grave em pré-escolares. Além disso, estrutura familiar e cárie estabelecida ou grave no baseline estiveram associados.

Dental caries prevalence, prospects, and challenges for Latin America and Caribbean countries: a summary and final recommendations from a Regional Consensus

Abstract Dental caries can be effectively managed and prevented from developing into cavitated lesions while preserving tooth structure at all levels. However, the strong correlation between caries and socioeconomic factors may compromise the efficacy of preventive strategies. The high prevalence of persistent inequalities in dental caries in Latin American and Caribbean countries (LACC) is a matter of concern. The estimates of the burden of disease in some countries in this region are outdated or absent. This paper aims to summarize and present the final recommendations of a regional Consensus for Dental Caries Prevalence, Prospects, and Challenges for LACC. This consensus is based on four articles that were written by a team of Latin American experts, reviewed by dental associations, and presented and discussed in two consensus events. The following domains were explored: epidemiology, risk factors, prevention strategies, and management of dental caries with a focus on restorative procedures. Dental caries can manifest throughout the lifespan of an individual, making it a matter of concern for infants, children, adults, and older people alike. The prevalence rates of untreated caries in deciduous and permanent teeth are high in many parts of the world, including LACCs. Previous evidence suggests that the prevalence of dental caries in 12-year-olds is moderate to high in most Latin American countries. Moreover, the prevalence of treatment needs and dental caries in the adult and elderly population can also be regarded as high in this region. The risk/protective factors (e.g., sugar consumption, exposure to fluoride, and oral hygiene) probably operate similarly in all LACCs, although variations in the interplay of these factors in some countries and within the same country cannot be ruled out. Although salt and water fluoridation programs are implemented in many countries, there is a need for implementation of a surveillance policy. There is also room for improvement with regard to the introduction of minimal intervention techniques in practice and public health programs. Dental caries is a marker of social disadvantage, and oral health promotion programs and interventions aimed at reducing the burden of dental caries in LACCs must consider the complexity of the socioeconomic dynamics in this region. There is an urgent need to promote engagement of stakeholders, policymakers, medical personnel, universities, dental associations, community members, and industries to develop regional plans that enhance the oral health agenda for LACCs. A list of recommendations has been presented to underpin strategies aimed at reducing the prevalence and severity of dental caries and improving the quality of life of the impacted LACC population in the near future.

Dental caries experience and its impact on quality of life in Latin American and Caribbean countries

Abstract Robust epidemiological data allow for logical interventions taken in the interest of public health. Dental caries is a major public health problem driven by increased sugar consumption and various biological, behavioral, and psychosocial factors, and is known to strongly affect an individual's quality of life. This study aims to critically review epidemiological data on the prevalence of dental caries in Latin American and Caribbean countries (LACC) and its impact on the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) of the population. Although the majority of national surveys did not include all age groups and several countries reported a reduction in the prevalence of cavitated carious lesions, most nations still exhibited a high burden of decayed teeth. OHRQoL evaluation was limited to children and older adults only, and was not included in any national survey. Study heterogeneity and methodological issues hindered comparison of evidence between studies and over time, and updating national level data on caries prevalence and its impact on OHRQoL should be prioritized in LACCs.

Calidad de vida relacionada a la salud oral de preescolares peruanos en el año 2018 / Qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde bucal em pré-escolares peruanos em 2018 / Oral health-related quality of life in peruvian preschool children in 2018

Antecedentes: Existen pocas investigaciones que muestren cómo la caries de aparición temprana (CAT) afecta a la mayoría de los niños peruanos. Sin embargo, es aún menor la cantidad de estudios que muestran cómo la CAT y la necesidad de tratamiento (NTx) afectan la calidad de vida de los menores. Objetivo: Evaluar el impacto de la salud bucal sobre la calidad de vida según CAT y NTx en preescolares del Perú. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo-transversal conformado por una muestra de 360 niños de 3 a 5 años de una institución educativa pública del distrito de Independencia, en Lima. Los niños fueron examinados con el índice CEOD, NTx y el cuestionario de Escala de impacto de la salud oral en infancia temprana (ECOHIS). Los datos fueron analizados con estadística descriptiva y para relacionar se usó ANOVA y Kruskal Wallis (p<0,05). Resultados: La prevalencia de CAT fue de 73,6% y la NTx más requerida fue la "obturación superficial". Se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas tanto para CAT como para NTx en relación con todos los dominios de calidad de vida. Conclusiones: La CAT y la NTx tienen impacto negativo en la calidad de vida de los preescolares.

Contexto: Existem poucas pesquisas que demonstrem como a cárie precoce na infância (CPI) afeta a maioria das crianças peruanas. No entanto, é ainda menor o número de estudos que mostram como a CPI e a necessidade de tratamento (NTx) afetam a qualidade de vida das crianças. Objetivo: Avaliar o impacto da saúde bucal na qualidade de vida segundo a CPI e a NTx em pré-escolares do Peru. Material e métodos: Foi realizado um estudo descritivo-transversal, com uma amostra de 360 crianças de 3 a 5 anos de uma instituição de ensino público do distrito de Independência, em Lima. As crianças foram examinadas com o índice CEOD, NTx e o questionário de a escala de impacto na saúde bucal na primeira infancia (ECOHIS). Os dados foram analisados com estatística descritiva e para relacioná-los foram usados ANOVA e Kruskal Wallis (p <0,05). Resultados: A prevalência de CPI foi de 73,6% e a NTx mais requerida foi a "obturação superficial". Foram encontradas diferenças estatisticamente significativas tanto para a CPI, quanto para a NTx em relação a todos os domínios da qualidade de vida. Conclusões: A CPI e a NTx tem impacto negativo na qualidade de vida dos pré-escolares.

Background: Few studies have investigated the effect of early childhood caries (ECC) on Peruvian children; there are even fewer studies of how ECC and treatment needs (TNs) affect the quality of life of these children. Objective: To assess the impact of oral health on the quality of life, according to ECC and TNs, of Peruvian preschool children. Materials and methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted, consisting of a sample of 360 children aged 3 to 5 years from a public educational institution in the district of Independencia, Lima. The children were examined using the decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT) index, the TNs index, and the early childhood oral health impact scale (ECOHIS) questionnaire. The data were analyzed with descriptive statistics using ANOVA and the Kruskal-Wallis test to establish relationships (p <0.05). Results: The prevalence of ECC was 73.6%, and the most required TN was "surface filling." Statistically significant differences were found for both ECC and TNs in relation to all quality of life domains. Conclusions: ECC and TNs have a negative impact on the quality of life of preschool children.

Socioeconomic and intraoral polarization of untreated caries and tooth loss among male adolescents

Abstract The aim of this study was to investigate the intraoral distribution of untreated caries and tooth loss and estimate the impact of different socioeconomic factors on the occurrence of these outcomes. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 652 18-year-old male adolescents from the city of Sapucaia do Sul, Brazil, who conscripted for military service. The participants answered a questionnaire addressing sociodemographic variables. Two trained and calibrated examiners performed the clinical examinations for the diagnosis of dental caries using the criteria of the World Health Organization. Tooth group and adolescent were the units of analysis for the primary outcomes of the study. Poisson regression analysis with robust variance was performed, with the calculation of crude and adjusted prevalence ratios (PR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). The prevalence of caries experience and untreated caries was 70.2% and 39.3%, respectively, and 9.4% of the adolescents had missing teeth. Sixty-seven percent of the untreated caries and 98.8% of missing teeth were in first molars. The probability of dental caries and tooth loss was significantly higher among adolescents with less schooling (PR = 2.56; 95%CI: 1.97-3.32 and PR = 3.28; 95%CI: 1.61-6.65, respectively) and those whose mothers had less schooling (PR = 1.31; 95%CI: 1.03-1.67 and PR = 2.30; 95%CI: 1.18-4.50, respectively). In conclusion, the occurrence of untreated dental caries and tooth loss was concentrated in the first molars of adolescents. Moreover, the prevalence of both conditions was higher among adolescents with low schooling and whose mothers had low schooling, reflecting the strong intraoral and socioeconomic polarization of these outcomes.

Fatores relacionados à cárie dentária em escolares de 15-19 anos de Manaus, Amazonas: um estudo transversal / Associated factors of tooth decay in 15-19-year-old students of Manaus, Amazonas: a cross-sectional study

Objetivo: Avaliar a experiência de cárie dentária e fatores relacionados em adolescentes de 15 a 19 anos de uma escola pública de Manaus-AM. Métodos: O delineamento do estudo foi do tipo transversal, cuja amostra foi constituída por 103 escolares. Para avaliar a cárie dentária foram realizados exames clínicos utilizando o Índice CPO-D (cariados, perdidos, obturados por dente) para avaliar presença de cárie dentária em ficha individual. Também foram aplicados dois questionários referentes aos hábitos de higiene bucal e à percepção da presença de dor dentária nos últimos seis meses e impacto das condições de saúde bucal na vida diária. O Índice Significant Caries Index (SIC) foi utilizado para avaliar a presença da doença cárie dentária em um terço da população com maior CPO-D. Para análise dos dados foram utilizados os programas Microsoft Excel®e Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), adotando o nível de significância de 0,05. Para verificar a hipótese de associação entre variáveis foi utilizado o teste Qui-quadrado de Pearson. Resultados: A média do índice CPO-D encontrada foi de 1,2 considerada baixa; sendo o componente cariado (C) o responsável pela maior parte do Índice CPO-D. O Índice SIC foi de 4,4 evidenciando que um terço da amostra apresentava Índice CPO muito superior à média encontrada, mostrando desigualdade na distribuição da doença no grupo estudado. A frequência de escovação por 3 vezes ao dia foi relatada pela maioria dos adolescentes (57,3%). No entanto, sobre a frequência de consulta dos adolescentes ao cirurgião-dentista, constatou-se que 48,6% dos estudantes nunca procuraram atendimento. Houve relação estatisticamente significante entre presença de cárie dentária e irritabilidade causada pelos dentes (p = 0,011) e dificuldade para falar (p = 0,007). Conclusão: Este estudo apontou baixa experiência de cárie dentária, sendo a frequência de escovação por 3 vezes ao dia relatada pela maioria dos adolescentes. Houve relação estatisticamente significante entre presença de cárie dentária e as questões sobre incômodo ao escovar os dentes e dificuldade para falar.

Aim:To evaluate the experience of tooth decay and its associated factors in teenagers ranging from 15 to 19 years of age in a public high school in Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil. Methods: This study used a cross-sectional design, whose sample amount was a total of 103 students. To evaluate tooth decay, clinical exams were performed using the DMF-T index (decayed, missing, and filled teeth) to assess the presence of tooth decay (DMF-T) on an individual data record. Two questionnaires were applied regarding oral hygiene habits, perception of the presence of dental pain in the last six months, and impact of oral health conditions on daily life. The Significant Caries Index (SIC Index) was used to assess the presence of tooth decay disease in one third of the population with the highest DMF-T. For data analysis, the Microsoft Excel® and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) programs were used, adopting a significance level of 0.05. Pearson's chi-square test was used to verify the hypothesis of association between variables. Results:The DMF-T index was 1.2, which is considered low, while the carious component (C) was the most prevalent of the DMF-T Index. The SIC Index was 4.4, showing that one third of the sample had a DMF-T Index that was much higher than the average, revealing an unequal distribution of the disease within the studied group. The frequency of brushing teeth 3 times a day was reported by most teenagers (57.3%). However, regarding the frequency of visits to the dentist, it was found that 48.6% of the students had never sought out dental care. There was a statistically significant relationship between the presence of tooth decay and questions about irritability caused by teeth (p = 0.011) and difficulty in speaking (p = 0.007). Conclusion:This study showed a low experience of tooth decay, with the frequency of brushing 3 times a day reported by most adolescents. There was a statistically significant relationship between the presence of tooth decay and difficulty in speaking.

Cárie dentária aos 12 anos: determinantes sociais e a importância da fluoretação para a equidade em saúde / Dental caries at age 12: social determinants and importance of water fluoridation for health equity

A fluoretação das águas de abastecimento público é uma medida de saúde pública para prevenção de cárie cientificamente consagrada, mas conforme outros métodos de uso tópico do flúor se disseminaram, surgiram hipóteses questionando a necessidade de sua continuidade. O objetivo neste estudo foi analisar a prevalência de cárie em escolares de 12 anos da cidade de Araçatuba, São Paulo, Brasil, no ano de 2019, comparando-se grupos de jovens de "escolas centrais" e "escolas periféricas", bem como entre os nascidos e não nascidos no município, que fluoreta regularmente suas águas. Trata-se de um estudo observacional, analítico, transversal, e de caso-controle, realizado em jovens de 12 anos do município de Araçatuba, que desde 1972 fluoreta ininterruptamente suas águas. Os critérios de inclusão foram: pelo menos 20 dentes na cavidade bucal; idade de 12 anos; estarem regularmente matriculados em escolas públicas do município; ausência de condições físicas que impossibilitassem o exame. Foram excluídos os indivíduos com síndromes e má formações congênitas, deficiências psicológicas, traumas faciais, e cujos responsáveis não assinaram o termo de consentimento livre e esclarecido. O estudo foi realizado por equipes compostas por examinadores, anotadores e monitores previamente treinados e calibrados, utilizando-se o índice CPOD para avaliação da cárie dentária. O processo de calibração foi realizado seguindo as etapas: apropriação dos fundamentos teóricos; compreensão dos critérios e códigos; aplicação dos critérios em situações reais; e cálculo dos erros intra e interexaminadores, coeficiente Kappa, cujo grau de concordância interexaminadores foi de 0,92. Os exames foram realizados nas próprias escolas, sob luz natural, em local bem iluminado e ventilado. A primeira etapa desta pesquisa consistiu em um estudo observacional, transversal, analítico, realizado com 454 adolescentes. Do total, 237 (52,20%) estudantes eram livres de experiência de cárie. O CPOD médio foi de 1,08±1,47, sendo encontrados os valores mínimos de 0 e máximo de 9. A média do índice CPOD foi significativamente maior (p-valor= 0,0424) nos estudantes do grupo "Escolas periféricas" (1,25±1,59) em comparação ao grupo "Escolas centrais" (0,96±1,38). Na segunda etapa desta pesquisa realizou-se um estudo de caso-controle com 164 adolescentes, divididos em 2 grupos: grupo controle com CPOD=0 (n=82); e grupo caso, com CPOD maior que 0 (n=82). O fato de não ter nascido e vivido sempre no município de Araçatuba foi considerado o fator de exposição para ocorrência da doença. A comparação entre os grupos caso e controle mostrou associação significante (p-valor= 0,0010) entre o fator de exposição e o CPOD maior que 0, com odds ratio de 3,0134 (IC 95%: 1,5944 - 5,6953). As médias do índice CPOD (nãoexpostos: 0,44±0,67; expostos: 1,31±1,32), do componente dentes cariados (nãoexpostos: 0,12±0,34; expostos: 0,49±0,89) e do componente dentes obturados (nãoexpostos: 0,40±0,73; expostos: 0,83±1,05) foram significativamente maiores (p< 0,05) nos indivíduos nascidos em outros municípios em comparação aos nascidos em Araçatuba. O CPOD médio dos jovens de 12 anos foi considerado muito baixo. Os jovens que frequentavam escolas periféricas apresentaram maior CPOD médio em relação aos das escolas centrais; houve associação entre nascer na localidade que fluoreta regularmente suas águas e menor experiência de cárie(AU)

The fluoridation of public water supply is a public health measure for the prevention of scientifically established caries, but as other methods of topical use of fluoride have spread, hypotheses have arisen questioning the need for its continuity. The aim of this study was to analyze the prevalence of caries in 12-year-old schoolchildren in the city of Araçatuba, São Paulo, Brazil, in 2019, comparing groups of young people from "central schools" and "peripheral schools", as well as between those born and unborn in the municipality, who regularly fluoride their waters. This is an observational, analytical, cross-sectional, and case-control study, carried out on 12-year-olds from the municipality of Araçatuba, who since 1972 have fluorinated their waters continuously. Inclusion criteria were: at least 20 teeth in the oral cavity; age of 12 years; being regularly enrolled in public schools in the municipality; absence of physical conditions that would make the exam impossible. Individuals with congenital syndromes and malformations, psychological disabilities, facial traumas, and whose parents did not sign the informed consent form were excluded. The study was carried out by teams composed of examiners, note takers and monitors previously trained and calibrated, using the DMFT index to assess dental caries. The calibration process was carried out in the following steps: appropriation of theoretical foundations; understanding of criteria and codes; application of the criteria in real situations; and calculation of intra- and inter-examiner errors, Kappa coefficient, whose degree of inter-examiner agreement was 0.92. The examinations were carried out in the schools themselves, under natural light, in a well-lit and ventilated place. The first stage of this research consisted of an observational, transversal, analytical study, carried out with 454 adolescents. Of the total, 237 (52.20%) students were free from caries experience. The average DMFT was 1.08 ± 1.47, with a minimum of 0 and a maximum of 9. The average DMFT index was significantly higher (p-value = 0.0424) in students in the "Peripheral schools" group. (1.25 ± 1.59) compared to the "Central Schools" group (0.96 ± 1.38). In the second stage of this research, a case-control study was carried out with 164 adolescents, divided into 2 groups: control group with DMFT = 0 (n = 82); and case group, with DMFT greater than 0 (n = 82). The fact that the student was not born and always lived in the city of Araçatuba was considered the exposure factor for the occurrence of the disease. The comparison between the case and control groups showed a significant association (p-value = 0.0010) between the exposure factor and the DMFT greater than 0, with an odds ratio of 3.0134 (95% CI: 1.5944 ­ 5.6953). The average of the DMFT index (control: 0.44 ± 0.67; case: 1.31 ± 1.32), of the decayed teeth component (control: 0.12 ± 0.34; case: 0.49 ± 0,89) and the filling teeth component (control: 0.40 ± 0.73; case: 0.83 ± 1.05) was significantly lower (p < 0.05) in the control group compared to the case group. The average DMFT for 12-year-olds was considered to be very low. Young people who attended peripheral schools had a higher average DMFT than those in central schools; there was an association between being born in the locality that regularly fluorides its waters and less experience of caries(AU)

Associação entre problemas para dormir e condições orais em escolares / Association between trouble sleeping and oral conditions among schoolchildren

ABSTRACT Objective: To investigate the prevalence of self-reported trouble sleeping due to dental problems and its association with oral conditions in schoolchildren. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study carried out with a representative sample of 1,589 schoolchildren aged 8-10 years enrolled in public schools from Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil. Non-clinical data included a questionnaire about socioeconomic indicators answered by parents/guardians. Children were questioned about whether they had trouble sleeping due to dental problems and about previous history of toothache. Clinical oral examinations were performed to evaluate dental caries - Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth Index (DMFT/dmft index) and its clinical consequences [PUFA/pufa index: considering the presence of pulpal involvement (P/p); ulceration of tissues due to tooth fragments from decayed crowns (U/u); fistula (F/f); and abscesses (A/a), and traumatic dental injuries (TDI)]. We conducted a descriptive analysis and used adjusted logistic regression models (p<0.05; 95%CI). Results: The prevalence of trouble sleeping due to dental problems was 28%. Children with untreated dental caries (OR 1.32; 95%CI 1.05-1.67) and clinical consequences from the PUFA/pufa index (OR 1.89; 95%CI 1.45-2.46) had higher chances of reporting trouble sleeping due to dental problems. Conclusions: Approximately one-third of the children declared having trouble sleeping due to dental problems. Untreated dental caries and its clinical consequences were associated with self-reported trouble sleeping due to dental problems in schoolchildren.

RESUMO Objetivo: Investigar a prevalência de problemas para dormir por motivos dentários autorrelatado e sua associação com condições orais adversas em escolares. Métodos: Estudo transversal com amostra representativa de 1589 escolares de 8 a 10 anos matriculados em escolas públicas de Florianópolis, Brasil. Os dados não clínicos incluíram um questionário sobre indicadores socioeconômicos respondidos pelos pais/cuidadores. As crianças foram questionadas se tinham problemas para dormir por motivos dentários e sobre episódios anteriores de dor de dente. Foram realizados exames clínicos orais para avaliar: cárie dentária - Índice de Dentes Cariados, Perdidos e Obturados (índice CPO-D/ceo-d) - e suas consequências clínicas (índice PUFA/pufa - presença de envolvimento pulpar (P/p); ulceração (U/u); fístula (F/f); e abscessos (A/a) e traumatismo dental (TD). Foram realizados análise descritiva e modelos ajustados de regressão logística (p<0,05; IC95%). Resultados: A prevalência de problemas para dormir por motivos dentários foi de 28%. Crianças com cárie dentária não tratada (OR 1,32; IC95% 1,05-1,67) e presença de índice PUFA/pufa (OR 1,89; IC95% 1,45-2,46) apresentaram maiores chances de relatar problemas para dormir devido a razões dentárias. Conclusões: Aproximadamente, um terço das crianças apresentou problemas para dormir devido a razões dentárias. Cárie dentária não tratada e suas consequências clínicas foram associadas a problemas autorrelatados para dormir por motivos dentários em escolares.

Relación entre factores socioeconómicos y salud bucal en estudiantes de una zona rural peruana / Socioeconomic factor in relation to oral health in students of a Peruvian rural area

ABSTRACT Introduction: The oral health of students from rural areas is a priority public health problem in Peru. Objective: To determine socioeconomic factors in relation to oral health in students from a rural Peruvian area. Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional observational study. The sample consisted of 604 students from a rural Peruvian area selected for convenience, meeting criteria of inclusion and exclusion, following ethical standards in scientific research. Socioeconomic factors were assessed using a structured questionnaire and the oral health using an epidemiological record with the indicators: DMFT index, Significant Caries Index (SiC), Simplified Oral Hygiene Index (OHI-S), Index of clinical consequences of untreated dental caries (PUFA). The evaluation was performed with natural light by calibrated observers. The data was analyzed in the program STATA 14 through frequency distribution tables and graphics. The relationship of each of the socioeconomic factors with the experience of dental caries was evaluated by the simple binary logistic regression tests. Results: The prevalence of dental caries was 85, 26 percent (DMFT = 6, 60 SiC=7, 23). The most frequent oral hygiene condition was regular, the prevalence of untreated tooth decay was 61.75 percent. Conclusions: The level of illiterate instruction, family responsibility and independent parental occupation showed a statistically significant association with their children's dental caries experience in a rural Peruvian area. (p < 0.001)(AU)

RESUMEN Introducción: La salud bucal de los estudiantes de zonas rurales es un problema prioritario de salud pública en el Perú. Objetivo: Determinar la relación entre factores socioeconómicos y salud bucal en estudiantes de una zona rural peruana. Métodos: Estudio observacional, descriptivo, de corte transversal. La muestra estuvo conformada por 604 estudiantes de una zona rural peruana, los que fueron seleccionados por conveniencia. Se evaluaron los factores socioeconómicos mediante un cuestionario estructurado y la salud bucal a través de una ficha epidemiológica con los indicadores: Índice CPOD, índice de significancia de caries dental (SIC), índice de higiene oral simplificado (IHO-S), índice de consecuencias clínicas de caries no tratadas (PUFA), la evaluación fue realizada con luz natural por observadores calibrados. Los datos se analizaron en el programa STATA v.14 mediante tablas de distribución de frecuencias y figuras. La relación de cada uno de los factores socioeconómicos con la experiencia de la caries dental se evaluó mediante pruebas de regresión logística binarias simples. Resultados: La prevalencia de caries dental fue de 85,26 por ciento (CPOD = 6,60, SIC = 7,23) y la prevalencia de caries dental no tratada fue 61,75 por ciento . La condición de higiene oral más frecuente fue regular. Conclusiones: El nivel de instrucción analfabeto, la responsabilidad familiar y la ocupación independiente de los padres mostraron asociación estadísticamente significativa con la experiencia de caries dental de sus hijos en un área rural peruana (p < 0,001)(AU)

The social status associated with dental experience among Brazilian children / O status social associado à experiência odontológica entre crianças brasileiras

Abstract Dentists should be alert not only to clinical variables, but also to socioeconomic, psychological and cultural factors, which have all been associated with the experience of dental caries. The aim of this study of was to assess social status and dental experience among Brazilian children. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 1367 male and female children aged six and seven years enrolled at public and private schools in the city of Recife (Brazil) in 2013. The children at tending public schools were socioeconomically less privileged than those attending private schools. Data were collected through interviews and intraoral examinations. Caries experience was high (53.3%) in the overall sample, but less privileged children had larger percentages of decayed teeth and teeth that required extraction (p < 0.001). Children from less privileged social class had a greater chance of having a low (OR = 1.77 [95%CI 1.33 - 2.35]), moderate (OR = 4.41 [95%CI: 3.18 - 6,14]) and high (OR = 9.55 [95%CI 6.01 - 15.16]) caries experience. They also had a greater chance of never visiting a dentist (OR= 2.90 [95% CI 2.25 - 3.74]) and had dental anxiety (OR = 1.70 [95%CI 1.34-2, 16]). Socioeconomic status influences the dental caries experience, the visits to the dentist and the dental anxiety of the children analyzed.

Resumo Os dentistas devem estar atentos não apenas às variáveis clínicas, mas também aos fatores socioeconômicos, psicológicos e culturais, que têm sido associados à experiência de cárie dentária. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o status social e a experiência odontológica em crianças brasileiras. Foi realizado um estudo transversal envolvendo 1367 crianças de 6 e 7 anos de idade, de ambos os sexos, matriculadas em escolas públicas e privadas da cidade do Recife (2013). As crianças de escolas públicas eram socioeconomicamente menos privilegiadas. Os dados foram coletados por meio de entrevistas e exames intraorais. A experiência de cárie foi alta (53,3%), mas as crianças menos privilegiadas tiveram maiores porcentagens de dentes cariados e com extração indicada (p < 0,001). Crianças de classe social menos privilegiada tiveram maior chance de ter experiência de cárie baixa (OR = 1,77 [IC95% 1,33 - 2,35]), moderada (OR = 4,41 [IC95% 3,18 - 6,14]) e alta (OR = 9,55 [IC95% 6,01- 15,16]). E, também tiveram maior chance de nunca visitar um dentista (OR = 2,90 [IC95% 2,25 - 3,74]) e ter ansiedade ao tratamento odontológico (OR = 1,70 [IC95% 1,34 - 2,16]). O status socioeconômico exerce influência na experiência de cárie dentária, nas visitas ao dentista e na ansiedade ao tratamento odontológico das crianças analisadas.