Abstract
Background
Iron deficiency anemia and dental caries are among the most prevalent diseases in some developing countries. However, few studies have been conducted to assess the association between Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and early childhood caries (ECC).
Objectives
The aim of the study was to assess the association between IDA and ECC.
Methods
40 children with proved iron deficiency anemia (using iron profile panel done initially) and another 40 healthy age and sex-matched children were examined by one trained and calibrated dentist where the oral status of all enrolled children was assessed in terms of the Decayed, Missing, Filled (DMF) index and
gingival health using Gingival index of Loe and Sillness.
Results
Children with anemia had a significantly higher DMF index (4.37±4.44) than children without anemia (0.50±0.90) (P < 0.001). It was found that there was a negative significant correlation between DMF index and the presence of anemia (r= -0.60, P < 0.001), hemoglobin level (r= -0.454, P < 0.001) and MCH level (r= -0.380, P = 0.001). The multiple regression model statistically significantly predicted DMF index (P = 0.001), (R2=0.34) and only the presence of anemia was found to add significantly to the model (P = 0.027).
Conclusion
Children with iron deficiency anemia have increased risk for development of dental caries than children without anemia. Any children with significant dental caries should be investigated for IDA and anemia should be treated if present.
Is Maternal Iron Deficiency Anemia Associated With Hearing Loss In Healthy Newborns
