Comparative Analysis of Diets in Rural and Urban Areas: Its Impacts on Oral Health, Dental Strength and Disease Susceptibility

Abstract

Aim & Background:  Oral health is closely influenced by dietary habits, which vary significantly between rural and urban populations due to differences in lifestyle, food availability, and socioeconomic factors. Refined sugars, processed snacks, and acidic beverages in diet often impact dental strength, enamel integrity, and prevalence of oral diseases. Understanding how diet affects oral health across different populations is essential for developing targeted preventive strategies. To evaluate and compare dietary habits in rural and urban areas and their impact on oral health, dental strength and disease susceptibility.

Materials & Methods: A cross-sectional, face-to-face survey was conducted among 200 participants. Dietary patterns were assessed using structured questionnaires, and oral health was evaluated using indicators like dental caries, self-reported oral hygiene practices, etc. Data were analyzed considering a p-value of 0.05 as statistically significant.

Results: Result found certain differences in consumption of processed foods between rural and urban participants. Sugar intake was paradoxically higher in rural (34%) than urban (23%), though urban diet included more acidic and fast foods. Higher prevalence of dental caries was observed in urban (62%) compared to rural (48%) (p < 0.01). Rural individuals had significantly better enamel strength (4.2 ± 0.8 vs..5 ± 1.1, p < 0.05). Gingivitis and periodontitis were significantly more prevalent in the urban (58% and 35%) than rural (42% and 22%) (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Rural populations demonstrated better oral health outcomes compared to urban areas. These findings highlight role of diet in oral health and the need for targeted preventive strategies.