Association Between Socio-Economic Status, Aerated Drinking Pattern and Gastric Alterations in Pediatric Dental Patients with Erosive Tooth Wear - Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

AIM: To assess socioeconomic factors, aerated drinking habits, and gastric changes affect erosive tooth wear in pediatric dental patients in the south Indian population.
METHODS: Cross-Sectional study was done in pediatric dental patients who visited saveetha dental college for general dental check up. Parents/caregivers completed a questionnaire that included independent variables such as frequency of sports drink consumption, acid/soda consumption, chewing gum usage, recurrent vomiting, gastrointestinal disorders, vomiting after eating, and socioeconomic status.

RESULTS: Erosive tooth wear was found in those who drank a lot of aerated drinks, chewed gums a lot, had a low socio-economic position, and the majority of carers had studied for at least 12 years. High intake of Aerated drinks was linked to tooth erosion (OR 3.42; 95 percent CI: 1.18–9.23). Erosive tooth wear was less common in children whose caregivers had completed four years of schooling or less (OR 0.39; 95 percent CI: 0.17–0.88).

CONCLUSION: Increased levels of Aerated drink intake are presented with erosive tooth wear. Erosive tooth wear is less likely in children whose caregivers have a lower educational level.