Relationship between Vitamin A and Vitamin C intake on Dental Caries

Abstract

. Background Dental caries is a multifactorial disease with a number of risk factors. Dental caries in children become important because it can cause chewing disorders which in the long run can lead to malnutrition because children have difficulty chewing their food. This study aims to analyze whether the level of intake of vitamin A and vitamin C is associated with the incidence of dental caries in schoolchildren. Methods The design of this study was an observational study with a cross-sectional design. This research was conducted at Madrasah Ibtidaiyah, Ngawi. The study period starts from April - May 2019. The assessment of dental caries is evaluated from the DMF-T index. The instrument used to determine food intake, vitamin A and vitamin C was a Semi-Quantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire (SQ-FFQ) form and the Nutrition Adequacy Rate Form. Primary data in this study were collected by interviewing respondents directly with questions that have been provided. Results Statistical test results indicate a significant relationship between the intake of vitamin A and vitamin C on dental caries status in MI children (p = <0.05). Conclusions Vitamins and minerals play a role in dental caries and are needed in the process of tooth formation. Deficiency of vitamins can increase the risk of dental caries.