The evaluation of the 15-item Food Frequency Questionnaire as a screening tool for dietary habits contributing to periodontal disease

Abstract

Objectives: A key aspect of dental hygiene is providing patient-centered care to enhance oral health and overall well-being. Diet and nutrition play vital roles in preventing chronic diseases. However, reliable dietary risk assessment tools for dental professionals are lacking. This study applied the 15-item FFQ in a clinical setting to explore the correlation between poor diet, periodontal inflammation, and the risk of periodontal disease.Methods: A cross-sectional quantitative electronic survey was distributed to a convenience sample of 1,470 participants from the UMN SoD dental hygiene clinic. The completed 15-item FFQ were compiled along with the patients' current BOP and PRA scores, collected within the past year. The FFQ responses were assessed using the DQS method. Results: The research showed a statistically significant negative correlation between the total DQS and the BOP percentage, indicating that diet and periodontal inflammation are inversely related. Conclusion: The 15-item FFQ can effectively screen for links between poor dietary habits and periodontal inflammation, aiding dental hygienists in identifying dietary risk factors for periodontal disease. Further research, including randomized clinical trials, is necessary to enhance the use of the 15-item FFQ as a means to promote oral and overall health.