Adolescents' knowledge of common foods and drinks and the importance of the pattern of consumption: a study undertaken in an area of high dental needs
Kinirons, M.J.; Stewart, C.
Community Dental Health 15(3): 175-178
1998
ISSN/ISBN: 0265-539X PMID: 10645688 Document Number: 484581
To assess the knowledge of adolescents concerning the cariogenic status of a range of foods and drinks. To determine the associations between this knowledge and their awareness of the importance of the ways sugars may be consumed in order to reduce tooth decay. Self-complete questionnaires assessing the above factors in a cross sectional study. Four hundred and fifteen 14-15-year-old young people attending second level schools. North and West Belfast area, Northern Ireland. Students rated the dental safety of common foods and drinks, and their views on the necessity of reducing all sugars, and avoiding them between meals were recorded. Correct assessment of harmful items ranged from 96.9% for chocolate and 92.8% for cola to 39.0% for orange squash and 17.8% for plain biscuits. For non-harmful products there were high levels for most items and somewhat lower levels for crisps (57.6%). Significant links were established between this knowledge and children's awareness of the role of eating patterns, although the items involved varied. A majority recognised the importance of eating patterns in relation to dental caries. Health educators should be aware that many adolescents have poor knowledge of the cariogenic status of some of the foods and drinks they consume and some are unsure of the importance of eating patterns.