Oral health by obesity classification in young obese women - a cross-sectional study

Objective To explore oral health by increasing degree of obesity and the influence of modifying factors. Materials and methods A cross-sectional design was used. Swedish females (n = 118; 18-35 years) with morbid obesity were recruited from the BAriatric SUbstitution and Nutrition study (BASUN). Body mass index (BMI) was used as continuous and categorized into 35-39.9 kg/m(2)/40-44.9 kg/m(2)/>= 45 kg/m(2). Oral examinations assessed dental caries using the ICDAS system, periodontal status and saliva characteristics. Information on sociodemographics, oral health behaviour and symptoms was collected via a questionnaire. Results Mean BMI was 42.2 kg/m(3) (SD 4.0; range 35.0-63.7). Significantly higher frequencies of dentine caries (p = .001) and total caries (p = .046) were found with higher BMI with an increase in total caries by 0.59 tooth surface (p = .025) for each increasing BMI degree. There were consistent associations between obesity and dentine caries for the group with the highest BMI (>= 45), adjusted RR 2.08 (95% CI 1.20-3.61), and all stages of caries, adjusted RR 1.41 (95% CI 1.02-1.96). High scores were found for dental plaque (50.2%) and gingivitis (34.5%). Conclusion Young obese women exhibited poor oral health with higher caries levels by higher BMI. Dental care should adapt the prevention efforts for obese individuals.