Evidence pertaining to modifiable risk factors for oral diseases: an umbrella review to Inform oral health messages for Australia

Abstract

The aim of this umbrella review was to collate and appraise the evidence base regarding modifiable risk factors for the prevention of oral diseases to inform the update of the Oral Health Messages for Australia. Eleven questions related to modifiable risk factors and dental disease were investigated. Electronic databases (Medline, Embase and PubMed) were searched from January 2010 to October 2022. Systematic reviews evaluating interventions/exposures in healthy subjects from high-income countries, where Westernized practices, oral health promotion and healthcare systems are similar to Australia, were included. Quality appraisal of included systematic reviews was guided by the AMSTAR tool. Of the 3637 articles identified, 29 articles met eligibility criteria. High-quality systematic reviews were identified for questions relating to diet, infant feeding, dental check-ups and oral hygiene. Free sugars consumption above 5% of energy intake, infrequent toothbrushing, smoking/vaping and alcohol intake were consistently associated with poorer oral health outcomes. Breastfeeding up to the age of 24 months was not associated with an increased risk of early childhood caries. The use of interdental cleaning devices and mouthguards during contact sports are likely to be effective in preventing dental disease.