Oral Health and Iron-Related Dietary Patterns in Preschool Children with and without Black Staining

Ralitsa Bogovska-Gigova

Abstract: This cross-sectional study investigated oral health status and dietary patterns in preschool children aged 4?6 years with and without black staining on their teeth. Sixty children were assessed using the dmft index, plaque index, gingival index, and salivary pH, along with a dietary questionnaire. Results showed that children with black staining exhibited significantly lower dmft scores and plaque accumulation, though no difference in gingival index was observed. Dietary analysis revealed higher consumption of iron-rich foods and supplements among the black-stain group. These findings suggest that black staining, while primarily an esthetic concern, may be linked to protective microbial environments and dietary patterns, warranting further investigation.

Keywords: Black stain, dental caries, primary teeth, salivary pH, iron-rich diet

How to Cite?: Ralitsa Bogovska-Gigova, "Oral Health and Iron-Related Dietary Patterns in Preschool Children with and without Black Staining", Volume 14 Issue 9, September 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 200-203, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR25906181731, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR25906181731