Simplified oral hygiene index and its distribution according to demographic factors in children and adolescents in the province of Manabí 2024 (cross-sectional analytical study)

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the relationship between the Simplified Oral Hygiene Index (OHIS) and demographic factors in children and adolescents treated at the mobile dental clinic of the Universidad Laica Eloy Alfaro de Manabí (ULEAM) in 2024. Methods: A quantitative, descriptive, analytical, and cross-sectional study was conducted based on the review of 1,349 medical records of patients between 4 and 14 years of age, collected during community outreach activities. The OHIS was evaluated according to the Greene and Vermillion criteria, considering dental plaque and dental calculus. Variables such as age, sex, and canton of residence were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the chi-square test (α = 0.05).Results: Of the total patients, 71,91% had “good” oral hygiene, 22,02% “excellent,” 5,63% “fair,” and 0,44% “poor.” Statistically significant associations were found between the OHIS and sex (p = 0.0005), as well as between the OHIS and age group (p = 4,56 × 10 ⁷), with better levels of hygiene observed in girls and in the 4- to 7-year-old age group. Urban areas such as Manta and Jipijapa showed more favorable results, while rural areas had higher rates of poor hygiene, possibly due to barriers to accessing dental care and socioeconomic disparities. Conclusion: Demographic factors significantly influence oral hygiene levels in pediatric populations, supporting the need for targeted preventive strategies and public policies to promote equity in oral health.