Abstract:
BACKGROUND: -Although the decline in tooth decay in many developed countries has
been largely linked to fluoride exposure and improved dental hygiene, eating habits still
affect the risk of tooth decay. In developingcountries the change from traditional
lifestyle has led to an increase in sugar consumption from food and beverages, the
prevalence of disease affecting oral cavity especially tooth decay is increasing as shown
by few previous studies. While intake of refined sugar products taking the large share
among the three main factors in oral health that is diet (substrate), microorganism and
host(susceptible tooth)
Objective:-the main objective is to assess diet and dietary habits as risk factor for
establishment of dental caries in Enat primary school students, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia,
2013
Method:-a cross sectional study was conducted in Enat primary school students, the
study was conducted in Enat primary school on a sample size of 492Students; was
selected by random sampling technique. The data was conducted by a structured
question format through face to face interviewing technique. And was coded and
analyzed by using SPSS ll computer program. Depending on the result appropriate
interpretation, discussion, conclusion and recommendation is made.
Results:-the result of this study shows that 42.5% of the respondents snack foods between meals
more than three times a week and 21.2% were using every day. 83.6% of the respondents were
taking honey once a day and 76.7%,48.6%,46.6%,40.4% of the respondents were taking candy,
chewing gums, chocolate and biscuit three to six times per week respectively. 87% of the
respondents used sweet foods between meals and only 13% of them did not use.
This study shows that the students should be given oral health education at the school
