Prevalence and determinants of dental caries among school children in Moro Local Government Area, Kwara State, Nigeria
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Date
2026-04-17
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Publisher
GSAR Journal of Dentistry and Oral Medicine
Abstract
Background: Dental caries is one of the neglected health issues for which most children and
adults suffer. Untreated caries is the most common of all 291 medical diseases recorded by the
Global Burden of Disease, which affects about 3.1 billion people worldwide.
Objective: This study aims to assess the prevalence, associated factors, and oral health
practices related to dental caries among primary school children in selected primary schools in
Moro Local Government Area of Kwara State, Nigeria.
Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional survey research design was utilized to examine the
prevalence and factors associated with dental caries among children in the selected primary
schools in Moro Local Government Area, Kwara State, Nigeria. Data were collected using
questionnaires conducted among 288 participants sampled through multistage sampling.
Results: Although there is a high level of awareness about dental caries (80.2%), there is also
inadequate knowledge and practice of prevention measures. The majority of the children
(70.1%) brushed their teeth once daily, while 3.1% brushed their teeth twice daily. Very few
parents (16%) helped their children brush their teeth. Less than ten percent (6.9%) had ever
attended a dental clinic, while 93.1% had never attended one. The consumption rate of sugary
snacks was very high (65.6%). Class level (p<0.001), family size (p=0.046), and parental help
while brushing (p<0.001) were significantly correlated with dental caries experience.
Conclusion: There are significant problems with oral health among school children in this
area. These include insufficient knowledge, poor practice, and unhealthy eating habits. It is
imperative that comprehensive oral health programmes are developed within the schools and
the community in general to reverse the current trend. It is highly recommended that efforts be
made to increase knowledge and promote oral health within school and family settings.
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Citation
Issa, Y. F., Rabiu, S. O., Abubakar, M. F., & Kolawole, B. O. (2026). Prevalence and determinants of dental caries among school children in Moro Local Government Area, Kwara State, Nigeria. GSAR Journal of Dentistry and Oral Medicine, 3(4), 1–13.