Prevalencia de caries en molares permanentes, niños de 6-11 años, Clínica UCSG Semestre B-2025.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The first permanent molar erupts at approximately 6 years of age and plays a fundamental role in masticatory function and the development of occlusion. Due to its early eruption, immature enamel, and prolonged exposure to poor hygiene habits and frequent sugar consumption, it is more susceptible to dental caries, especially in children. OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of caries in first permanent molars and associated factors in children aged 6 to 11 years treated at the Dental Clinic of the Catholic University of Santiago de Guayaquil during the second semester of 2025. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A quantitative, cross-sectional, observational-analytical study was conducted on 69 pediatric patients. The presence of caries was assessed using odontograms and medical records. Variables such as eating habits, oral hygiene, previous dental care, age, and gender were analyzed. RESULTS: 252 first permanent molars were evaluated, of which 18.3% presented caries. At the patient level, 33.3% presented at least one carious lesion. High consumption of sugary foods was more frequent in children with cavities (91.3%), while 8.7% of them had low consumption. 73.9% of children without cavities had high sugar consumption, while 26.1% had low consumption Multivariate analysis showed that low consumption of sugary foods was significantly associated with a lower probability of caries (p = 0.037). No significant associations were found with age, gender, oral hygiene, or previous dental care (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Frequent consumption of sugary foods was the main associated factor, highlighting the importance of strengthening preventive strategies and nutritional education.