2018 Volume 18 Issue 2 Pages 21-28
Purpose: The aim of this study was to assess oral health status and erosive tooth wear with related risk factors among Myanmar residents in Japan.
Materials and Methods: One hundred and five Myanmar volunteers who aged 20-64-year-old participated in this study. A cross-sectional epidemiological survey including a structured questionnaire and clinical oral examination was conducted in Tokyo, Japan in 2018.
Results: The prevalence of dental caries and periodontal disease of all participants were 68.5% and 82.9%, respectively. About two-third of participants (68.6%) had higher erosive scores (score 2-3). A significant difference was observed in missing teeth (p = 0.049) and erosive score (p = 0.001) by length of stay in Japan. Maxillary anterior teeth were most commonly affected by dental erosion, while the most severe erosive status was found only in mandibular posterior teeth. The participants who took pickled foods (p = 0.048), lime (p = 0.028), vinegar drinks (p < 0.001), and citrus juices (p = 0.003) almost every day were significantly higher erosive scores. Frequent consumption of acidic drinks was significantly related with dental erosion (p = 0.004). There were significant differences in heartburn (p = 0.024) and gastroesophageal reflux (p < 0.001) by erosive score. The participants who brushed their teeth with soft texture of toothbrush showed a significant lower erosive wear (p = 0.027).
Conclusion: Erosive tooth wear is a public health issue among Myanmar residents in Japan. Expansion of awareness on erosive tooth wear and dietary counselling would be necessary to improve the condition.
