Comparing the Effect of Pineapple Fruit and Star Fruit to Reduce the Dental Plaque in Children Aged 10-12 Years: A Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

Tooth and mouth disease is one of the health problems that many people complain. Tooth decay in children occurs due to lack of knowledge and independence of children in maintaining oral health. As the result, it can produce more plaque. Purpose: To determine the differences between the effectiveness of chewing Pineapple and Star fruit to reduce dental plaque for children aged 10-12 years. Methods: This study used 60 peoples and divided into three groups namely the intervention group (I: chewed pineapple; II: chewed Star Fruit and III: brushes teeth as control group). Data was analyzed with non parametric Wilcoxon test and the Kruskal wallis test. Results: The plaque index before intervention were 0,73 + 0,18 on group I, 0,78 + 0,19 on group II, and 0,83 + 0,18 on group III. After intervention plaque index were 0,47 + 0,18 on group I, 0,64 + 0,19 on group II, and 0,36 + 0,23 on group III. A significant difference existed in each groups in the reduction of dental plaque index. Comparing between group there were a significant differences existed between groups but the biggest decrease diference of plaque index occurred after being treated for brushing teeth (group III). Conclusion: Treatment chewing pineapple and star fruits can decrease dental plaque but brushing teeth was more effective in reducing the dental plaque.