Association Between Incidence of Dental Caries and Body Mass Index among Preschool Children: a Longitudinal Study

Abstract: Body mass index (BMI) disorders and dental caries are common and interrelated conditions in children, sharing risk factors such as inadequate diet and socioeconomic factors. This longitudinal study was designed to improve understanding of the determinants of children's health and, consequently, to promote health from childhood. The research was conducted between August 2017 and November 2018 in Diamantina, Brazil, and investigated the association between the incidence of dental caries and BMI in preschool children. The final sample included 122 children aged three to four years and 11 months, who were evaluated at two points over a one-year interval. The analysis showed that reduced family income (RR = 3.94; 95%CI: 1.26–12.39) and the incidence of caries (RR = 1.86; 95%CI: 1.01–3.42) were significant risk factors for low weight. Although maternal education initially appeared relevant (RR = 4.67; 95%CI: 1.48–14.73), its influence diminished when family income was considered. In conclusion, this study found an association between incidence of dental caries and low BMI (underweight) in preschoolers after one year of follow-up. The incidence of caries and the reduction or maintenance of low monthly family income were identified as risk factors for low weight in preschoolers during one year of follow-up.