Evaluation and Comparison of Nutritional Status According to Area of Residence and Type of Institute, its Effect on Plaque and Gingival Status: A Comparative Longitudinal Study

Schoolchildren constitute about 113.8 million (2000-2001 census) population of India and around 11,413,000 comprises schoolchildren in Rajasthan (2000-2001 census), with overall 2.4% children suffering from dietary inadequacies. In the causation of nutritional deficiency diseases, dietary inadequacies have been considered a predominant etiological factor. To overcome such dietary problems and initiate any programs for improvement in general and oral health status, the present study was undertaken in the form of a dietary record of five consecutive days among schoolchildren belonging to different geographical areas. To evaluate and compare nutritional status according to area of residence and type of institution and its possible effect on plaque and gingival status among 12-15-year-old schoolchildren of Jaipur. The list of schools was collected using simple random technique in both rural and urban areas of Jaipur city. Overall, four schools were drawn randomly from the selected area (two from government and two from private). In the urban area, nutrient scores (NS) were higher compared to rural areas, irrespective of the season. In contrast to this, plaque and gingival scores were higher in private schools of rural areas. There is a need for awareness regarding applied nutrition among schoolchildren, irrespective of the area. Gaur AG, Sharma M, Sharma R, Evaluation and Comparison of Nutritional Status According to Area of Residence and Type of Institute, its Effect on Plaque and Gingival Status: A Comparative Longitudinal Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2023;16(S-3):S233-S239.