Is attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder a risk factor for dental caries? A case-control study

Abstracts on this page have been chosen and edited by Dr Trevor Watts

Abstract

A high DMFT score was much more likely in subjects with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Main

Broadbent JM, Ayers KMS et al. Caries Res 2004; 38: 29–33

ADHD might be a risk factor for caries because of medication, altered health behaviour or cariogenic parental rewards. Children aged 11-13 yrs with a DMFT of 5 or more were identified in a group of 4215 in the New Zealand School Dental Service database. This group of 273 was matched with a control group of subjects who had DMFT of 4 or less. Questionnaires were sent to all parents, and after follow-up, were returned from 47% of case-control pairs. There were twice as many females as males in this sample.

In both groups, demographic data were similar. In the case group, there was greater experience of dental pain and GA for restorations. ADHD was present in 11 case and 3 control subjects, of whom respectively 8 and 1 received medication for it. Logistic regression identified no other factors related to high caries rates. The authors recommend improved caries preventive measures in these patients.