Evaluating the association between food insecurity and dental caries in US children 1‐19 years: results from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2013‐2014

Abstract

Objectives To evaluate the association between food insecurity and dental caries in US children aged 1‐19 years. Methods Data from children ages 1‐19 collected through the 2013/2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey was analyzed. Descriptive analysis of both the exposure (food insecurity) and outcome variables (dental caries), as well as covariates, was carried out. Strata‐specific odds ratios and respective 95 percent confidence intervals for each covariate were determined, followed by linear regression models. Results The odd of having dental caries was 2.9 times higher for children who had very low food security. The odds of having dental caries was 2.6 times higher for children aged 6‐11, 2.9 times higher for children aged 12‐15, and 4.2 times higher for children aged 16‐19 when compared to children aged 1‐5. Conclusions There is a significant association between food insecurity and dental caries in children and dental caries prevalence increases with age.

Studying and Analyze the Factors That Affect Compliance Dentist Recommendations From Parents of Child Patients

“…The ability to establish a trusting relationship with the parents is very important for the further successful treatment of the child [12]. The dentist should also explain to parents the importance of proper nutrition for children's dental health [13].…”

Obesity and oral health in Mexican children and adolescents: systematic review and meta-analysis

“…It has been described that although overweight and obesity shared some causal factors with poor oral health outcomes (eg, high-sugar diets), there seem to be more factors influencing this association. Other studies have suggested that genetic or biological factors, 47 sedentary behaviors, 48 socioeconomic status, 49 , 50 lower parental education levels, 47 and food insecurity 51 might determine the development of both conditions (ie, obesity and poor oral health) in children.…”

IJPD inaugural editorial: On priorities and privilege

“…4 Food insecurity, a well-documented risk factor for caries, has skyrocketed, breadlines are common, and families have fewer healthy food options for their children. 5,6 Many low-income caregivers are essential workers or are at home with no childcare, leading to unprecedented levels of caregiver stress. 7 Devices are used to distract children, resulting in increased screen time and sugar intake.…”

“…Millions of low‐income children have stopped visiting the dentist 4 . Food insecurity, a well‐documented risk factor for caries, has skyrocketed, breadlines are common, and families have fewer healthy food options for their children 5,6 . Many low‐income caregivers are essential workers or are at home with no childcare, leading to unprecedented levels of caregiver stress 7 .…”