The association between decay missing filled tooth index and body mass index in a group of preschool children

Liana Beresescu; Denisa Oprea; Florina Ruta; Raluca Sabau; Alexandra Mihaela Stoica

doi:10.2478/amma-2024-0033

Abstract

Background

Dental caries and obesity are prevalent chronic conditions across all age groups, with common multifactorial causes such as diet and socioeconomic status.

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine if there is a correlation between the decay missing filled tooth (DMFT) index and body mass index (BMI) in preschool children.

Materials and Methods

The study included 390 children aged 4 to 6 years, comprising 262 boys and 128 girls. The DMFT indices were assessed by two dentists, while anthropometric measurements were conducted by a nutritionist. BMI was calculated using the WHO Anthro-Plus application.

Results

Most children were of normal weight (332), with 28 being underweight and 30 overweight. There were no obese children. Under-weight children had a mean DMFT index of 3.7 ± 3.56, significantly higher than those of normal weight (2.0 ± 1.88) and overweight children (1.9 ± 1.60).

Conclusions

This study highlighted an association between the DMFT index and BMI in preschool children, with underweight children having a higher DMFT index compared to those of normal weight and overweight.

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