Assessment of Demographic and Socioeconomic Factors Associated with Dental Caries in Children

Background: Early childhood caries (ECC) is a prevalent and multifactorial condition that significantly affects children's health and quality of life, especially in low-resource settings. This study aims to assess the influence of demographic and socioeconomic factors on the prevalence of dental caries among children. Aim of the study: The aim of the study was to evaluate how demographic and socioeconomic variables influence the prevalence of dental caries in children. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from March to June 2004 at the outpatient department of City Dental College and General Hospital, 1085/1 Malibagh Chowdhury Para, Dhaka-1219, Bangladesh. A total of 105 children under five with oro-dental problems were systematically selected. Data were collected through interviews and clinical examinations using standard dental instruments. Verbal consent was obtained. Data analysis was done with SPSS 11.0. Results: Among 105 children, 64.76% aged 3–5 had caries, with higher prevalence in males (45.71%) than females (25.71%). Caries was most common in children of illiterate mothers (36.19%) versus 5.71% for mothers with degrees. Most families (79%) earned under 10,000 Taka monthly. Only 5.71% brushed twice daily before bed and breakfast, while 34.28% brushed once or twice weekly, and 5.71% never brushed, linking socioeconomic and behavioral factors to caries. Conclusion: Demographic and socioeconomic factors, including maternal education, income, and oral hygiene habits, significantly influence the prevalence of dental caries in children.