대학생의 구강건강 위험 예측을 위한 영양지수 활용 가능성 탐색

Abstract

Objective: This study investigated the association between the Nutritional Quotient (NQ), dietary habits, and oral health risks among university students. Methods: Thirty students aged ≥19 years participated in a cross-sectional survey assessing NQ, dietary behaviors, general characteristics, and oral health habits. Oral examinations were performed using Qray to measure the white spot, decayed, missing, and filled teeth index (WDMFT), and Cariview for caries activity. The statistical analyses included correlation tests, group comparisons, and multiple regression analyses. Results: Overall, 66.7% of the participants were classified as having low NQ, balance, and moderation scores. Irregular dietary patterns, such as skipping breakfast(56.7%) and eating late at night(86.7%), were highly prevalent. WDMFT showed negative correlations with total NQ, NQ practice, and breakfast frequency, and was lower in the low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet group. Cariview scores were higher in the low moderation group and were related to dietary supplement intake. Age, NQ score, and tooth brushing frequency were identified as predictors of WDMFT by Multiple regression analysis. Conclusions: Poor nutritional status, characterized by low NQ and unbalanced dietary habits, was associated with increased caries incidence and activity. The NQ may serve as a screening indicator for oral health risks in young adults and underscore the importance of dietary patterns in caries prevention.