Cariogenic Risk and COVID-19 Lockdown in a Paediatric Population

• Main Authors: Raffaella Docimo, Micaela Costacurta, Paola Gualtieri, Alberto Pujia, Claudia Leggeri, Alda Attinà, Giulia Cinelli, Silvia Giannattasio, Tiziana Rampello, Laura Di Renzo
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2021-07-01
• Series: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
• Subjects: dental caries; eating habits; lifestyle; COVID-19 pandemic
• Online Access: https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/18/14/7558
• ISSN: 1661-7827; 1660-4601

The Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 disease COVID-19 pandemic caused several lifestyle changes, especially among younger people. The study aimed to describe the impact of eating habits, lifestyle, and home oral hygiene during the COVID-19 pandemic, on the cariogenic risk in the Italian paediatric population, by using an online survey. The survey was conducted through a virtual questionnaire divided into four parts: child personal and anthropometric data; oral health; child dietary habits (KIDMED test); and child lifestyle, before and during COVID-19 lockdown. During the lockdown, only 18.6% of the participants had high adherence to a Mediterranean diet, recording an increase in sweets consumption and the number of meals (<i>p</i> < 0.001). In terms of lifestyle, the percentage of moderately and vigorously active children decreased (41.4% and 5.0%, respectively) (<i>p</i> = 0.014). The percentage of children sleeping more than 9 h increased (<i>p</i> < 0.001). They watched more television programs (<i>p</i> < 0.001). Regarding oral hygiene, children did not change their brushing habits (<i>p</i> = 0.225). The percentage of children using non-fluoridated toothpaste was higher (6.4%), and no changes were observed (<i>p</i> > 0.05). In some cases, dental pain and abscesses were declared (10% and 2.7%, respectively). This study confirms the need for campaigns to promote hygiene and dental care in combination with food education for a correct habit and promotion of a healthy and sustainable dietary style.