Study on Toothbrushing Habits, Snack Intake Frequency, and Dental Caries in Primary School Students in Changwon City

Lee, Mee Hoee; Youn, Hyun Sook

Abstract

This study was conducted to provide basic information on toothbrushing habits, snack intake frequency, and current dental caries in elementary school students. A total of 188 students (105 boys and 83 girls) in Changwon city participated in this study. Dental examination was conducted by two dental hygienists in July, 2010. The results were as follows. Exactly 86.2% of students were shown to have dental caries, which includes a sealant and removed teeth due to decay. The average number of teeth with dental caries per student was 3.8. Exactly 60.6% of students were shown to maintain correct toothbrushing habits to prevent dental caries, but only 12.8% brushed their teeth immediately after a meal or snack. Exactly 82.4% percent of participants received toothbrushing education, 47.1% of them received it from an expert, 43.9% received from their parents, and 28.2% used tooth paste with fluorine. Regarding snack intake frequency, ice cream was the most consumed cariogenic food and white milk was the most consumed protective food. The >=7 teeth with dental caries group consumed higher frequency of carbonated beverages intake than the 'no dental caries' group (P<0.05), and the '5~6 teeth with dental caries' group consumed higher frequency of chocolate intake than 'no dental caries' group (P<0.05).