PREVALENCE AND DETERMINANTS OF DENTAL CARIES AMONG SCHOOL CHILDREN IN MORO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, KWARA STATE, NIGERIA
Background: Dental caries is one of the neglected health issues for which most children and adults suffer. Untreated caries is the most common of all 291 medical diseases recorded by the Global Burden of Disease, which affects about 3.1 billion people worldwide.
Objective: This study aims to assess the prevalence, associated factors, and oral health practices related to dental caries among primary school children in selected primary schools in Moro Local Government Area of Kwara State, Nigeria.
Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional survey research design was utilized to examine the prevalence and factors associated with dental caries among children in the selected primary schools in Moro Local Government Area, Kwara State, Nigeria. Data were collected using questionnaires conducted among 288 participants sampled through multistage sampling.
Results: Although there is a high level of awareness about dental caries (80.2%), there is also inadequate knowledge and practice of prevention measures. The majority of the children (70.1%) brushed their teeth once daily, while 3.1% brushed their teeth twice daily. Very few parents (16%) helped their children brush their teeth. Less than ten percent (6.9%) had ever attended a dental clinic, while 93.1% had never attended one. The consumption rate of sugary snacks was very high (65.6%). Class level (p<0.001), family size (p=0.046), and parental help while brushing (p<0.001) were significantly correlated with dental caries experience.
Conclusion: There are significant problems with oral health among school children in this area. These include insufficient knowledge, poor practice, and unhealthy eating habits. It is imperative that comprehensive oral health programmes are developed within the schools and the community in general to reverse the current trend. It is highly recommended that efforts be made to increase knowledge and promote oral health within school and family settings.
Key Words: Dental caries; Fluoride, Oral hygiene; Plaque; Tooth decay
