FACTORS RELATED TO THE DENTAL CARIES STATUS OF THIRD YEAR STUDENTS OF UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND PHARMACY - VIETNAM NATIONAL UNIVERSITY HANOI IN SCHOOL YEAR 2022 - 2023

Abstract

Dental caries is the most widespread chronic disease worldwide and constitutes a major global public health challenge. Untreated tooth decay can cause many problems in eating, sleeping and is a leading cause of absence from school and work. This study aims to point out the factors associated with dental caries status of third-year students at University of Medicine and Pharmacy – Vietnam National University Hanoi. An epidemiological cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 206 third-year students of University of Medicine and Pharmacy – Vietnam National University Hanoi. Dental caries were measured using the Decayed, Missing and Filled Teeth (DMFT) index. Information concerning sweet eating habits and oral hygiene behaviors was collected in a structured questionnaire. The results showed that Toothbrushing frequency, toothbrush replacing frequency, having a dental exam and frequency of eating sweets were significantly associated with the occurrence of dental caries status.