Investigating the Association between Healthy Eating Index and Early Childhood Caries in Iranian Preschool Children: A Case-Control Study

Maryam  Mehrabkhani; Taraneh  Movahhed; Mohsen  Nematy; Melika  Hoseinzadeh; Homeira  Mohammadi

doi:10.18502/jnfs.v10i1.17765

Maryam Mehrabkhani Pediatric Dentistry Department, Center, Faculty of Dentistry, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
Taraneh Movahhed Pediatric Dentistry Department, Center, Faculty of Dentistry, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
Mohsen Nematy Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
Melika Hoseinzadeh Dental Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
Homeira Mohammadi Pediatric Dentistry Department, Center, Faculty of Dentistry, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/jnfs.v10i1.17765

Keywords: Dental caries; Child; Diet; Oral health.

Abstract

Background: Early Childhood Caries (ECC) is known as a main global dental problem in childhood period, which oral diet may play an important role in the occurrence of this complication. Thus, the present study aimed to evaluate the association between dietary Healthy Eating Index (HEI) and ECC in children living in Mashhad, Iran. Methods: In the current case-control study, 732 preschool children (aged 3–6 years) were examined for dental caries and then categorized into two groups of children with ECC, or who were Caries-Free (CF). Then, the HEI was measured by analyzing a validated food frequency questionnaire, which their parents were requested to complete. The association between HEI score and the prevalence of ECC was determined using logistic regression analysis. Results: The HEI for CF group was significantly higher than ECC group (P<0.001, CI 95%: 57.58-67.93 vs. 51.72-65.49), respectively). The mean scores of grain, milk, fruits, vegetables, and meat groups were significantly higher in CF group (P<0.001). Children in CF group were also more compliant with recommended intake of total fat (P<0.01) and cholesterol (P<0.001). Furthermore, CF children had a significantly more diverse food item intake (P<0.001). It is noteworthy to mention that, with each unit increase in HEI score, the odds of ECC decreased by 0.04 (P=0.01, OR=0.04). Conclusion: Caries prevalence in preschool children could be prevented by enhancing food quality.