Abstract:
Dental caries is a chronic infectious disease that causes demineralization of dental hard
tissues. Dental caries was declared a pandemic by World Health Organization (WHO) in
2005 because of its high global prevalence and severe consequences. The prevalence of
dental caries varies worldwide between 60% and 90%. In Kenya approximately 50% of
children aged between 13-15 years have dental caries. The main objective of the study
was to determine the association between dental caries and oral health knowledge and
practice among children in Nairobi West and Mathira West Districts. A cross-sectional
study was conducted among 639 children aged 12 years attending public primary schools
in Nairobi West and Mathira West districts. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to
determine the level of knowledge and practices employed. Oral screening was performed
using WHO recommended methods. Dental caries was measured using the Decayed,
Missing, Filled Teeth (DMFT) index. Nairobi West District had significantly higher
caries prevalence of 37.5% than Mathira West District which had a prevalence of 24%
(p<0.05). The mean DMFT in Nairobi West District was 0.76 ± 1.2 while in Mathira
West District it was 0.36 ± 0.7. On multivariate analysis knowing that a toothbrush
should be changed after three months (OR 3.2) and high consumption of soda (OR 3.0)
were found to be significant risk factors for dental caries in Nairobi West District. In
Mathira West District having a caregiver with no formal education (OR 4.3) was a
significant risk factor for dental caries. The study shows the need for intensive oral health
promotion in urban areas to reduce the higher prevalence of dental caries. The school health policy should be used to promote oral health by provision of oral health
instructions and educating on harmful dietary practices particularly soft drinks.
Caregivers should be encouraged to take their children for regular dental check-ups.