Comparative evaluation of predictors of dental caries among adult population in a metropolitan city in North West Nigeria: A case-control study

Background: Dental caries as a disease entity has not been eradicated but controlled worldwide. The predictors of dental caries play a significant role in the holistic approach in the management of dental caries. The aim of this study is to evaluate the predictors of dental caries among adult population in North West Nigeria. Material and Methods: The study populations consist of adults between 20-60 years old, with diagnosis of dental caries (case) and those without dental caries (control), both were confirmed after intraoral examination. A multistage sampling technique was employed to select the study respondents. Mouth mirror and caries explorer (dental probe) were used for intraoral examination to confirm diagnosis of dental caries. An initial calibration of the research assistants was done on intraoral examination by the principal researcher, assessing the same respondents examined by the research assistants. Data was analyzed using SPSS Statistical software version 20.0. Results: The older age groups were 4% less likely to have caries (p <0.001, AOR= 0.96, 95% CI =0.94-0.98) while participants that took local sweet drinks were 2.8 times more predisposed. Respondents without scaling and polishing were 4.8 times more likely to have caries (p=0.01, AOR= 4.82 95% CI=1.45-16.05) while those who received oral hygiene instructions were 72% less likely to have caries (p<0.001, AOR=0.28 95% CI= 0.11-0.67). Conclusion: Age, family history, teeth cleaning method, use of fluoride toothpaste and source of oral health maintenance were found to be independent predictors of dental caries.