282 - Effects of Social Determinants of Health on dmft

Abstract:

Purpose: To describe social determinants of health and oral health behaviors associated with dmft (decayed, missing, and filled primary teeth) scores among children receiving dental care through a Global Service Learning program in San Miguel Dueñas, Guatemala.

Methods: A cross-sectional, community-based needs assessment was conducted among a sample of 47 children aged 17 years or younger receiving care at a free dental clinic. The examiner completed an interview survey in Spanish for each caregiver assessing education level, income, residence location, oral health knowledge, dietary practices, oral hygiene behaviors, feeding practices, and access to dental care. Children underwent a standardized dmft examination performed by a calibrated examiner using visual inspection with a dental mirror and explorer at the beginning of the clinical examination. Descriptive statistics were calculated.

Results: Forty-seven children were included. The mean dmft score was 10.5 (SD=4.8), with a median of 11 and a range of 0–23. A dmft score of 13 or greater was observed in 75% of children. Among caregivers, 83% reported knowledge of fluoride, and 74% reported cleaning their own teeth twice daily. The most common child oral hygiene practice was twice-daily toothbrushing (53%). No prior dental visits were reported for 36% of children.

Conclusions: Children in San Miguel Dueñas, Guatemala exhibited a substantial burden of dental caries. High dmft scores, limited prior dental care, and gaps in oral health practices highlight the influence of social and behavioral determinants on oral health. These findings support the need for culturally appropriate, community-based preventive strategies.

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