Correlation between caries prevalence and socioeconomic status in children ages 6 to 36 months

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the status of a sample of children ages 6 to 36 months with regard to prevalence of tooth decay in a community with an optimum fluoridated water supply. It was determined whether a relation existed between these data and the socioeconomic level of the family. One hundred and fifty children ages 6 to 36 months born and reared in Marion County, Indiana were examined with a dental mirror, explorer and a portable light. Parents/legal guardians of these children were given a questionnaire to obtain family history. Caries prevalence for children ages 6 to 12, 13 to 18, 19 to 24, 25 to 30, and 31 to 36 months were 4%, 0%, 22%, 23%, and 26%, respectively. Age, mother's educational attainment, and Medicaid experience remained significant predictors of caries experience: the odds of caries were 1.1 times for each monthly increase in age. Gender, father's educational attainment, family household income, and single parent status remained marginally significant predictors of caries experience. Results for similar correlation studies between caries prevalence and socioeconomic status for children ages 6 to 36 months are inconsistent. Further research is needed for children ages 6 to 36 months. Caries experience begins before age one. Patients, parents, and health care professionals need to be aware that the caries process begins at an early age, and prevention should begin as early as 6 months of age.