ASSOCIATION OF FOOD SECURITY WITH ORAL HEALTH OUTCOMES AMONG CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS: AN ANALYSIS OF NHANES DATA

Hesham A. Alhazmi

DOI : 10.62610/RJOR.2025.2.17.22

ABSTRACT

Aim of the study This study aims to assess the relationship between food security and unmet dental needs, as well as previous dental caries experience, among children and adolescents aged 6 to 18 utilizing National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data. Materials and methods This study utilized NHANES data from 2015 to 2018. The primary outcomes measured were dental caries experience through the Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT) index and untreated dental caries. Analyses examined the relationship between these outcomes and food security status, as well as demographic and health-related variables. Chi-square tests and negative binomial regression analyses, were utilized to analyse the data, reporting mean ratios, with a significance threshold set at p < 0.05. Results This study included 5,063 participants, with the majority (87.28%) experiencing full to marginal food security. Individuals not receiving Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) benefits reported a mean of untreated dental caries of 0.13 (95% CI: 0.10-0.16) for full to marginal food security and a higher mean of 0.23 (95% CI: 0.12-0.35) for low to very low food security. Additionally, individuals experiencing low to very low food security had a mean ratio of 1.27 (p < 0.05; 95% CI: 1.05-1.53) in DMFT scores compared to those with full to marginal food security. Conclusions The study highlights that individuals and adolescents experiencing low to very low food security have higher levels of untreated dental caries and DMFT scores. The findings underscore the importance of addressing food insecurity to promote for better oral health outcomes in paediatric populations. Tackling these disparities might help for improving the overall health and well-being of children and adolescents.