Factors related to dental caries in adolescents in southeastern Brazil

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ABSTRACT

Aim

Identify the experience of dental caries among adolescents associated to work, self-care, social life and
access to healthcare services.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was carried out with 60 adolescents
aged 15 and 16 years in a city in southeastern Brazil. The data were collected through a structured interview and clinical
exam for dental caries carried out by a single, duly calibrated examiner (Kappa=0.8 to 0.9). The relationships between the
dependent variable (experience of dental caries) and independent variables (work, self-care, social life and access to
healthcare services) was determined using bivariate (chi square test, p<0.10) and multivariate analysis (p<0.25).

Results

Eighty percent had two or more teeth with caries (95 CI: 70.0-90.0). Mean DMFT was 4.72 ( 3.55)
and DMFS was 8.07 ( 7.46). When the experience of caries was related to the independent variables, only access to
healthcare services achieved statistical significance. Individuals with greater access had a threefold greater chance of
belonging to the group with a lesser experience with caries, PR=3.2 (90 CI 1.07-9.78).

Conclusion

All
interviewees reported seeking care in the private system when requiring dental assistance. Access to healthcare (declared as
essentially private) was associated to dental caries.

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