The relationship between childhood weight, dental caries and eating practices in children aged 4–8 years in Australia, 2004–2008
Authors
Hooley M, Skouteris H, Millar L
Journal
Pediatric Obesity
Abstract
The association between overweight/obesity and dental caries in children is contentious with studies variously reporting positive or negative associations between the two conditions. Since 1995, Australia has experienced a rise in the prevalence of both conditions in its children. This study investigated the association between child weight, diet and dental problems in a nationally representative sample.
Conclusions
Dental caries and body weight are influenced by diet. Overweight children may be consuming less fatty food but appear to be consuming more sweet drinks than normal-weight children, which can lead to both increased weight and dental caries. Dietary interventions designed to reduce the development of dental caries may also reduce the development and maintenance of overweight.
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