Prevalence of Dental Caries in Children Aged 6 to 60 Months and Associated Factors in Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of dental caries and associated factors among children aged 6 to 60 months in Diamantina, MG, Brazil. Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed with a representative sample (n = 233) of the preschool population (6 to 60 months) of Diamantina, MG, Brazil. Dental caries (dependent variable) was evaluated by clinical examination and the independent variables (gender, age, socioeconomic status, nutritional status, oral hygiene and diet) were assessed by the determination of anthropometric measurements (weight and height) and interviews with parents/caregivers. Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive analysis, chi-square test and univariate and multivariate logistic regression model. Results: The prevalence of dental caries was 44.8% (n = 104). Child’s age, oral hygiene and duration and frequency of bottle feeding were significantly associated with dental caries. Patients older than 36 months (OR [95% CI] = 10.4 [3.7 to 29.5]), those bottle-fed three or more times a day (OR [95% CI] = 3.3 [1.1 to 10.0]), those bottle-fed for more than five months (OR [95% CI] = 6.2 [1.8 to 21.2]) and those with poor oral hygiene (OR [ 95% CI] = 3.7 [1.2 to 11.5]) had greater chances of developing dental caries. Conclusion: The prevalence of caries among children aged 6 to 60 months was high. The main factors directly involved in the development of dental caries were the patient’s age, frequency and duration of bottle feeding, and poor oral hygiene.