Caries prevalence and sex in preschoolers aged 18 to 36 months

Aim: Dental caries is a multifactorial disease where aspects such as socioeconomic status, caregivers’ health education, and dietary and hygiene patterns are recognized factors associated with this condition. However, the literature remains inconclusive regarding sex differences, especially in children. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the relationship between dental caries prevalence and sex in preschoolers. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with a representative sample of 432 children aged 18 to 36 months, enrolled in Early Childhood Education Centers (CMEIs) in São José dos Pinhais, PR, Brazil. Data on demographic and socioeconomic conditions, dietary practices, hygiene habits, and bottle-feeding were collected through a questionnaire directed to parents. Children were assessed for dental caries (DMFT and modified DMFT index) by a calibrated researcher (Kappa≥0.80). Bivariate analysis was performed to verify the association between dental caries and other covariates, with a significance level of 0.05. Results: There was no difference in per capita household income between boys and girls. The dmft value in girls was 0.12 (SD=0.59; median 0; interquartile range 0), and in boys, it was 0.34 (SD=1.37; median 0; interquartile range 0), with no statistically significant difference (p=0.197, Mann-Whitney test). The prevalence of caries was also not statistically different between boys and girls (p=0.087, Chi-square test). Conclusion: It can be concluded that in this age group, there was no association between sex and dental caries.