A Comparative Study on Oral Health Status among Persons Who Eats Vegetarian and Non-

Vegetarian Diets

A Quantitative Research
presented to the Faculty and Staff of Academy
Adventist University of the Philippines

In partial fulfillment of the requirements in

PRACTICAL RESEARCH 2

Delos Santos, Queennie Rica Gay N

Ducante, Wernher II M
Lagumbay, Ira Bianca P
Morado, Lloyd Gabriel
Oliva, John Alvin T

Grade 11 – STEM (Sapphire)

 February 15, 2019
INTRODUCTION

Background Study

Oral health is an important part of a person’s overall health which most Filipinos do not

consider as a priority (Rappler, 2015). Research has shown that this issue is not only existing

nationally but also globally. Oral health is commonly seen as a low priority in most developing

countries throughout South East Asia (Saekel, 2016). It is an alarming issue that poses health risks

to the population caused by an unhealthy mouth. Gum problems for instance may increase the risk

of serious health problems such as heart attacks, stroke, poorly controlled diabetes and preterm

labor (Colgate, 2019). According to WHO, in most countries out of every one hundred thousand

people, there are between one and ten cases of oral cancer. Between sixty and ninety percent of

school children have at least one dental cavity (Healthline Editorial Team, 2018).

Oral health is an essential indicator of a person’s overall health and well-being. It is defined

as the state of being free from oral diseases (World Health Organization (WHO), 2018). In order

to obtain this, people should learn proper oral hygiene and have a healthy lifestyle. According to

Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, choosing the right kind of diet can affect the oral health status

of a person. Vegetarian diet is among the thousands of diets that has become more appealing to

people (Harvard Health Publishing, 2018). A vegetarian diet is the practice of abstaining from the

consumption of meat, and may also include abstention from animal-based products. Despite the

increase of vegetarian eaters, non-vegetarianism still remains as the most common diet in the world

(What is a vegetarian?, 2016). Food affects the people’s oral health may it be a vegetarian diet or

a non-vegetarian diet. Food have their corresponding pH levels that can affect a person’s oral

health status. One efficient way to reduce bacteria that causes tooth decay is by balancing the pH
levels. Not having the correct pH balance in your mouth can cause dental problems in the short

and long term (Medcalf, 2018).

Food is one of the factors that can contribute to oral diseases and to research on the effects

of non-vegetarian diet and vegetarian diet to oral health status can help people better their practices.
Statement of the Problem

The study generally aims to find the comparison between the oral hygiene among persons

who eats a vegetarian diet and a non-vegetarian diet. Specifically, the study will answer the

following questions:

1. What is the status of the respondents’ oral health in terms of:

1.1 pH levels of saliva

1.2 Dental condition

2. What diet do the respondents practice?

2.1 Non-vegetarian diet

2.2 Vegetarian diet

3. Is there any significant difference in the oral health status in terms of:

3.1 Gender

3.2 Age

3.3 Socio-economic status

4. Which of the following variables best influence the respondents’ oral health status?

4.1 Non-vegetarian diet

4.2 Vegetarian diet

5. What is the perception of the students towards the effects of diet to oral health?
Research Hypothesis

1. There is no significant difference in the oral health status in terms of:

1.1 Gender

1.2 Age

1.3 Socio-economic status

2. None among the following variables best influence the respondents’ oral health status

2.1 Non-vegetarian diet

2.2 Vegetarian diet

Significance of the study

The study of the comparison of the oral hygiene among persons who eats vegetarian and

non-vegetarian diets may help to spread awareness on how oral hygiene is important. It may give

people knowledge on what food they must intake or avoid and to observe their proper oral hygiene.

This study benefits the following:

1. Students. This research may help the students be aware to the possible problems

that may affect to their oral health status. It will give the students a realization on

how important their oral health is and the chosen food they intake. With this

knowledge, students may better their practice earlier and may reduce potential

diseases.

2. Parents. The information acquired would help them formulate some preventive

measure to help their children from potential oral diseases. Through this research

the parents may be more cautious on the food they serve to their family especially

to their children. Thus, it may not only make their family healthy but also teach

their children the right practice to do.

3. School. The given data would guide the school on what food to serve to the

students. This study will provide information that the school may share to the

students. The information may be used to better practices of the students and also

to the teachers.

4. Researchers. The researchers may search more about the other reason that causes

various oral disease related to diet and hygiene and how to prevent it. It may give

additional information to the society that may better their practices and find more

about the subject.

Scope and Delimitation of the Study

Scope

This was a comparative study on how the Vegetarian and Non-vegetarian diet affect the oral

health status of an individual. The study covers students who are children to young adults from

ages 9 to 24 years old. There was a total of 64 respondents in which half of them identified as

vegetarian and the other half as non-vegetarian.

The Primary data gathering method used was through litmus paper testing to acquire enough

data on their saliva’s pH level. Information about the respondents’ oral health was acquired

through the results of the dental examination conducted on the students of AUPA. This is to

determine whether the respondents have Decayed, Missing or Filled Teeth (DMFT). A

questionnaire was also used to deduce any significant difference between the Vegetarian Diet and

Non-Vegetarian Diet to the student’s oral health.

Delimitation

In this research, the study had a limited sample size of sixty-four respondents and was

delimited only within the compounds of the “Adventist University of the Philippines” due to

insufficient time and financial resources. The sample for vegetarian diet covered individuals who

eat mostly vegetables in an extended period of time. Different types of the sub-categories of the

vegetarian diet was observed. The research was conducted on March 2019.
 Chapter 2

REVIEW OF THE RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES

This chapter presented related literature and studies connected to the study. This also

presented the theoretical framework and conceptual paradigm which were needed fully to

understand the research done. Lastly, the definition of terms for better comprehension of the study

was included.

Vegetarian Diet

Vegetarianism is a diet that is free of meat, fish and fowl flesh (WebMD, 2018). According

to other resources they defined vegetarianism as the practice of abstaining from eating meat (Ruby,

2012). Many people wanted to switch their diet to vegetarianism because of the benefits it has. A

research stated that eliminating just one serving of meat a day can lower the risk of dying by 7 to

19 percent (Stegeman & Davis, 2014). They tend to have lower risks for diabetes, diverticular

disease, eye cataract and lower chance of being obese or overweight (Appleby & Key, 2016). They

are also more likely to have lower blood pressure, BMI and reduced risk for chronic diseases

(Harvard Health Publishing, 2018) like obesity, diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, some

cancers, osteoporosis, diverticular disease, gallstones, cataracts and rheumatoid arthritis

(Stegeman & Davis, 2014).

Six to eight million adults in the United States eat no meat, fish, or poultry. And about two

million of the population have become vegans. Plant-based foods can affect our health and over

well-being (Rosi, et al., 2015). It is more environmentally sustainable because they use fewer

natural resources (Vesanto, Craig, & Levin, 2016).

 According to study, vegetarians have better periodontal status compared with meat eaters.

They showed less inflammation, less periodontal damage and better dental home care (Bachmann,

2013). They also have healthier gums than meat eaters. It reduced the risk for tooth loss and

bleeding (Dentistry Today, 2013). However, their dental status was worse than non-vegetarians

(Bachmann, 2013). Vegetarians cannot get enough vitamin B12, zinc, iron, vitamin D, calcium

and protein (Donvito, 2016). Due to these deficiencies they can have a higher risk of plaque,

cavities, tooth decay and other oral diseases. The deficiencies are not only limited to vitamins but

also to other nutrients they lack such as protein that needs substitution. Carefulness must be

observed (New Genration Dentistry, 2018). Healthy diet combined with regular dental checkup

can help to prevent gum diseases, tooth decay or most oral health problem (Dentistry Today, 2013).
Non-vegetarian Diet

The Non-Vegetarian Diet is a diet that consists mostly of meat products or high-protein food

that is taken in, on a regular basis (Oxford Dictionaries, 2019).

It is one of the predominant diets which is known for its advantages such as being a reliable

source of protein, a very important part component in the body that is used for building every

different type of cell in the body and a source of Vitamin B12 and Iron which are also important

nutrients that are required for the formation of the red blood cells and nerve fibers (Malhotra,

2018).

Despite food procurable on hand, certain factors affect the ability of an individual to attain the

required protein, which caused a phenomenon called (PEM) or protein energy malnutrition which

is the cellular imbalances of an individual which decreases the body’s mass affecting several

systems, especially in oral health where it causes the decrease of gums and the thinning of muscles

responsible for the mandibular bone (Scheinfeld, 2016).

 The occurrence of PEM in critical development could severely affect the outcome of the

individual’s oral tissues such as smaller salivary glands that results in the decrease of the salivary

flow; this saliva is now different in its protein composition, amylase and aminopeptidase activity,

thus discrediting the immune function of the saliva (Cynthia A. Stegeman, 2015). Low pH in the

saliva is acidic which can demineralize the enamel of the teeth and create an environment for

bacteria where inflammation of the gums can occur (Levine, 2015). Though over consumption is

not advised according to a study involving 29,000 menopausal women, it has been found that

participants who reported the highest protein intakes from red meat and dairy products had

approximately a 40% higher chance of dying of Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) compared to those

who don’t take high protein intakes (Davis, 2015).

According to a study by Kumar et al. (2013), college students often tend to eat fewer portions

of fruits and vegetables in the daily meal basis and report of the increased intake of high-fat, high-

calorie foods. The disposition of a student to transfer from high school to college often worsens

dietary habits among the students who could contribute to the rise of weight problems especially

during the preliminary years of college or university and may continue during later years of life.

Furthermore, dental behavior is complex and associated with smoking habit, familial

characteristics and the dental health behavior of the parents that affect regular dental visits by

adolescents.

In a study about role of dietary habits and diet in caries occurrence and severity among urban

adolescent school children, the mean and DMTF were higher among children who are non-

vegetarian compared to vegetarians with a significance in the statistics between the two groups

(Punitha, Amudhan, Sivaprakasam, & Rathanaprabu, 2015).

Oral Health

WHO defines oral health as free from oral diseases that limit an individual’s capacity in

any physical and psychosocial well-being (WHO, 2018). Similarly, FDI World Dental

Federation’s definition acknowledges the multi-faceted attributes of oral health and includes the

ability to do any oral and facial function with confidence and without pain, discomfort and disease

of the craniofacial complex (Glick, et al., 2016).

Oral health is an important and intrinsic part of general health throughout life (Ghom,

2014). It has been described as a “window” to overall health (Kane, 2017). Oral manifestation is

presented as an early warning sign in many systematic illnesses. (Canadian Association of Public

Health Dentistry (CAPHD), 2014). Studies show that oral health diseases such as gum disorder

and extensive tooth loss are being increasingly linked with other general health and systematic

illnesses including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease and dementia (Vassalo,

2016). Additionally, examinations of the mouth can reveal nutritional deficiencies in the body

(FDI World Dental Federation, 2015). Thus, it can be deduced that the improvement of oral health

will lead citizens to be healthier as it can help in the prevention and protection against other

diseases (Vassalo, 2016).

 Oral disease is one of the most common public health issues globally (Jin, Lamster,

Greenspan, Pitts, Scully, & Warnakulasuriya, 2015). The Global Burden of Disease Study 2016

estimated that at least 3.58 billion people worldwide were affected with oral diseases and 2.4

billion people suffer from caries of permanent teeth (WHO, 2018). According to FDI World Dental

Federation, the most widespread chronic disease in the world is dental caries. This phenomenon

constitutes a major global public health challenge (FDI World Dental Federation, 2015). Severe

periodontal (gum) disease was estimated to be the 11th most prevalent disease globally (WHO,

2018). Research has shown that nearly 100 percent of adults have at least one dental cavity and

between 15 and 20 percent of adults have severe gum disease (Healthline Editorial Team, 2018).

In the Philippines the Philippine Dental Association (PDA)- Davao City Chapter reveals

that oral diseases continue to become one of the major public health problems in the country

(Castillo, 2017). The most neglected aspect of health and wellness among Filipinos is dental care.

According to Dr, Rickman Cabello, dentist in DOH Central Visayas, 80 percent of Filipinos suffer

from dental problems (Newman M. B., 2018). Statistics show that 7 out of 10 Filipinos have never

been to a dentist (Mejia, 2015).

Mouth's saliva greatly contributes on the assessment of oral health. Salivary pH can be

used as a diagnostic biomarker. The results of a study indicated significant change of the pH

depending on the severity of the periodontal condition (Baliga, Muglikar, & Kale, 2013).

Similarly, a study of 80 children confirmed the importance of saliva as it revealed a slight reduction

in the flow rate, pH, and buffering capacity in children with caries (Zabokova-Bilbilova,

Stefanovska , & Ivanovski , 2013). Through the use of litmus strips, the pH level of the saliva can

be tested. Saliva that is properly pH balanced helps maintain a healthy mouth and protect the teeth.

However, unbalanced salivary pH reflects a bad oral health status of a person. Food and drinks can
change the pH level of saliva. When acidic beverages such as soft drinks are taken, the acids in the

mouth start to demineralize tooth enamel which serves to protect the teeth from tooth decay. If the

tooth enamel becomes too thin, the inner tissue of the teeth called dentin is exposed which can lead

to sensitivity to hot or cold food or beverages, persistent bad breath, and tooth cavities.

(Frothingham, 2018).

Moderators

Gender

A research and analysis done by International Journal of Pediatric Dentistry (2013)

involved 161 school-aged children (7-14 years old). Necessary data that concerns the study about

oral health of the children were collected using questionnaires. With the focus to compare both

male and female oral health, they confirmed that a person’s gender affects his/her oral health.

According to the Academy of General Dentistry, men are not as likely to visit the dentist

at least twice a year than women. And they are more likely to create an appointment only when

symptoms of a problem were already visible. Here are some of the many facts about men’s oral

health: 28.7% of women will brush after each meal, and 56.8% of them will brush twice a day,

while 20.5% of men will brush after meals and 49% will brush twice daily; Men have a higher

chance of developing gum diseases and oral cancer. Lastly, men are more likely to take

medications that concerns their cardiovascular conditions which could hinder on the flow of saliva

in the mouth, boosting the risk of developing cavities (Smile, 2017).

Many of the stages of the female life are characterized by big changes in reproductive

hormones, there are corresponding changes that happen throughout the body and one of it is the

oral cavity. The specific changes such as sex and age as well as the risk factors related with oral
health are frequently left unnoticed by health care professionals and the public. Admission that

women of different ages have particular oral health concerns will probably lead to better oral health

status in women of all ages (Branch-Elliman, 2012).

Men and women have a big difference when it comes to genetic makeup and they answer

differently to oral systematic disease. Some of the gender-dominated illnesses have definite oral

health and nutritional necessities for their clients (Manlapig & Davao, 2016) . Study done by Al-

Shehri (2012), in Riyadh in which male subjects had a higher smoking rates than female subjects,

shows that the majority of subject in need for tooth extraction were male subjects. Another study

done about the perception of gender difference in oral health showed a result having women pay

better attention to their oral health than (Azzoda & Unamatokpa, 2012). Given that the study stated

that women give more attention to their oral health than men, women have a higher chance of

getting a periodontal disease in which in the population of the women, three-quarters of them have

periodontal disease and in which the cause is the change in their hormones (Osano & Gerungan,

2016).

Female patients have, in general, better oral health behaviors in brushing, flossing and

frequency of dental visits than male patients. In addition, Female participants in general, shows

more positivity towards their oral health than males. This study also supports the conclusion and

findings of other study in which dental carries and periodontal disease are more common to men

than on women (Hamasha, et al., 2018).

Progesterone and estrogen, the two major sex hormones in women, have a powerful effect

on women’s oral health (Begnal , Anderson, & O'Halloran , 2016). These hormones oscillate in

every part of women’s lives, especially at menstruation, pregnancy, puberty and menopause
(Grover, More, & Singh 2014). Which exposes women to tooth decay, periodontal disease and

tooth loss.

The theory that young women have better oral hygiene habits than men was proven.

Although, the hypothesis that women having a better oral hygiene and periodontal status but

exhibit dental caries experience than men do not have a strong proof and was not supported by the

findings of the study (Homata, Margaritis, & Kounari, 2016).

Age

Aging changes occurs throughout the body. Certain changes such as cells renewing at a

slower rate, tissues becoming thinner and less elastic, bones becoming less dense and strong, and

the weakening of the immune system increases the risk for oral health problems (Martin, 2018).

These changes can occur in the mouth (Davila, 2018). A study showed that with increasing age in

the oral cavity, the teeth demonstrate wearing of the enamel, chipping and fracture lines, and a

darker color (Lamster, Asadourian, Carmen, & Friedman, 2016). The risk for chronic condition

increases with age. Oral diseases and other diseases share common risk factors. As a person gets

older, the more it becomes susceptible to diseases because of the changes that occur to the body

(Howley, 2018). Research has shown that age has been associated with increased rates of

periodontal diseases as the population gets older. Additionally, the diminished function of salivary

glands is associated with aging which can cause many deleterious consequences to the host (Razak,

et al., 2014). Similarly, a research conducted revealed a significant effect of age on salivary

markers of oxidative stress (Celecova, Kamodyova, Tothova, Kudela, & Celec, 2013). With aging,

physiological erosion occurs in the enamel that results in a dark yellowish color of the teeth.

Increase tooth loss is also witnessed in aging due to periodontal diseases (Abdulsamet, Mehmet,

Faith, & Izzet, 2015). Aging may mean the increase of usage of prescription and non-prescription
medicine that can greatly affect the oral health status of a person (Skinner, 2014). A research of

68 elderly show that medicine use influences the result of low salivary flow and saliva pH of

elderly people (Saintrain & Gonçalves, 2013).

Socio-economic status

Socioeconomic status is the social standing or class of an individual or group. It is often with

a composite of education, income and occupation.

Research about socioeconomic status often reveal inequities in access to resources, plus issues

related to privilege, power and control (American Psychological Association, 2019).

The role of diet in the prevention of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) is well documented.

Studies in high income countries attribute disparities in obesity and health in part to differences in

diet quality. For most high-income countries in general, energy-dense foods cost less, whereas

healthier foods tend to cost more; thus, diet quality may differ by socioeconomic status (SES)

(Manyanga, et al., 2017).

According to the Manila Time (2017), the DOH of the Philippines showed that dental caries

on permanent teeth has stayed vigilant throughout the years, statistics showed that in a survey in

2011 that around 87% percent of the Filipino population suffer from tooth decay and further

surveys showed that 77% showed that 7 out of 10 Filipinos have never gone to the dentist. Many

dentists report that patients only come to them when they are already experiencing tooth-ache

which if examined beforehand would have prevented with as oral prophylaxis or tooth cleaning

and/or tooth filling when needed.

Socioeconomic status, has been reported to be associated with oral health behavior. Therefore,

the present subject was conducted to assess the relationship between SES and oral health behaviors
in a large sample of the Korean population. Information from the Korea National Wellness and

Aliment Examination Survey, which was conducted between 2008 and 2010 by the Part of Chronic

Disease Surveillance (Park, Han, Park, & Ko, 2016).

According also to a study in the Kegalle, Sri Lanka by Nanayakkara, Renzaho, Oldenburg, &

Ekanayake (2013), The prevalence of dental caries among children in the present study (72%) is

comparable to the prevalence rates reported for children of similar ages from neighboring and

other low- and middle-income countries. For example, Hashim et al. (2006) examined dental caries

experience and use of dental services among preschool children in Ajman, United Arab Emirates.

Although oral exam health troubles are related to socioeconomic factors in children, the

carrying out of primary oral health syllabus and program to improve the quality of life of the

population may directly or indirectly improve the oral health scenario. These programs may be the

drivers to improve oral health, because changing the socioeconomic status might indirectly

improve oral conditions. This style is being noticed in Brazil, where oral health policies have

changed and social programs are being implemented (Navarro, Modena, & Bresciani, 2012).

Poor oral health is still a major burden throughout humankind, particularly in developing

areas. The aim of this field was to investigate oral health behavior (tooth brushing and dental

attendance) and associated factors in low, middle, and high-income countries. Using anonymous

questionnaires, data were collected from 19,560 undergraduate university students (mean age 20.8,

SD = 2.8) from twenty-seven universities in 26 countries across Asia, Africa and the Americas.

Consequence indicate that 67.2% of students reported to brush their teeth twice or more times a

solar day, 28.8% about once a day and .0% never. Regarding dental check-up visit, 16 % reported

twice a year, 25.6% once a year, 3.9% rarely and .3% never. In a multivariate logistic regression

analysis, being a male, coming from a wealthy or quite well-off family background, living in low
income or lower middle income, weak belief in the importance of regular tooth brushing,

depression and Post traumatic stress disorder symptoms, tobacco use and frequent gambling, low

physical activity, and low daily meal and collation frequency were associated with inadequate

tooth brushing (Peltzer & Pengpid, 2014).

Theoretical Framework

Aetiology of Dental Caries Theory describes dental caries as multifactorial. It shows that

cariogenic diet and saliva are among the major factors that may affect the dental status. Lower pH

increases risk of dental caries to which a pH of 5.5 or lower is associated with extreme caries

activity. Carbohydrates that are solid and sticky are likely to cause caries than liquid or semisolid

ones. It also showed that carbohydrates taken orally should be cleared right away to avoid

accumulation. Additionally, the more frequent the intake of carbohydrates the more likely for

caries to occur (Subramayan, 2016).

 Conceptual Paradigm

Independent variable Dependent variable

Diet
 Vegetarian Oral health status
 Non – vegetarian

Gender

Age

Socio – economic status

Moderators

Definition of Terms

DMFT (Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth index) - used to assess the pervasiveness of dental

caries

Denture - a removable plate or frame holding one or more artificial teeth

Gingivitis – oral diseases in which the gums become swollen and red due to inflammation
Lacto-ovo Vegetarian – group of vegetarians who eat some animal products such as eggs and

dairy

PEM (Protein Energy Malnutrition) - is a form of malnutrition due to lack of protein and

calories.

Periodontal disease - is an inflammatory disease that affects the soft and hard structures that

support the teeth and women are more likely to get this disease than men

Tooth decay or dental caries - decay of the outer surface of a tooth as a result of bacterial action

Vegetarian - a person who does not eat meat, and sometimes other animal products, especially for

moral, religious, or health reasons

 Chapter 3

METHODOLOGY

This chapter will describe the research design, the population and sampling techniques,

research instruments, data gathering procedures, and general overview of each of the statistical

treatment that will be used in analyzing the collected data.

Research Design

Comparative research design was used in this study. Comparative design was used to

compare and find the similarities and differences between the oral health status of vegetarians and

non-vegetarians. The results of the comparison can be used to generate insights about the

characteristics of both groups and can be used to determine the underlying causes of these

similarities or differences.

Population and Sampling Technique

The respondents of the study were students of Adventist University of the Philippines

(AUP). The respondents gathered are children to young adults from ages 9 to 24 years old. There

was a total of 64 participants as a whole where 32 or half of them identified as vegetarians and the

other half non-vegetarian.

Table 1

Distribution of Respondents in terms of their Demographic Profile

Demographic Frequency (n) Percentage (%)

Age 12 and below 16 25.00

13 - 15 15 23.40
16 - 18 13 20.30
19 - 21 10 15.60
22 and above 10 15.60
Total 64 100.00

Gender Male 28 43.80

Female 36 56.30
Total 64 100.00

Socio-economic status Below 30,000 29 45.30

(Monthly Income) 30,001 – 50,000 15 23.40
50,001 – 70,000 10 15.60
70,001 – 90,000 4 6.30
Above 90,000 6 9.40
Total 64 100.00
 The result of the study showed that there are more female respondents than male. Among

the 64 respondents, 36 (56.30%) of them are female and the rest 28 (43.80%) were male as

presented in Figure 1. This

43.80%

56.30%

Male Female

Figure 1. Distribution of the Respondents According to Gender

The result showed that the study covered respondents who are children, teenagers and

young adults. Among the 64 respondents, 16 (25.00% ) of them are 12 years old and below, 15

(23.40% ) of them are 13 - 15 years old, 13 (20.30% ) of them are 16 - 18 years old, 10 (15.60% )

of them are 19 - 21 years old, and 10 (15.60% ) of them are 22 years old and above as presented

in Figure 2.
 30%
25%
25% 23.40%
20.30%
20%
Percentage 15.60% 15.60%
15%

10%

5%

0%
12 years old – 13-15 years old 16-18 years old 19-21 years old 22 years old and
below above
Age Bracket

Figure 2. Distribution of Respondents According to their Age

The result of the study showed that most of the respondents fall in the middle-income-class

to high-income-class based on the chart by Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) (Adrian, 2017).

Among the 64 respondents, 45.30% or 29 of them have below 30,000 monthly income, 23.40% or

15 of them have 30,001 - 50,000 monthly income, 15.60% or 10 of them have 50,001 – 70,000

monthly income, 6.30% or 4 of them have 70,001 – 90,000 monthly income, and 9.40% or 6 of

them have above 90,000 monthly income as presented in Figure 3.

 50.00%
45.30%
45.00%
40.00%
35.00%
Percentage
30.00%
25.00% 23.40%

20.00% 15.60%
15.00%
9.40%
10.00% 6.30%
5.00%
0.00%
Below 30,000 30,001-50,000 50,001-70,000 70,001-90,000 Above 90,000
Family Income Bracket

Figure 3. Distribution of the Respondents According to their Monthly Family Income

Purposive Sampling Technique was used in this study wherein students who are vegetarian

and non-vegetarian were gathered as sample of the study. Snowball Sampling Technique was also

used in this study especially in gathering the vegetarian sample.

Instrumentation

The first instrument used in the study is the survey questionnaire to aggregate data for

statistical analysis to draw a conclusion, the survey was used to gather specific data on individuals

following two specific diets which are the vegetarian and non-vegetarian diet, taking their

demographic into account. The Questionnaire was adopted based on the related literature and

studies, and thesis relevant to the research. In preparation of the first part of the instruments; issues

that intersects with the respondent’s privacy and personal identity was taken into account and

therefore anonymity was taken in consideration. The questionnaire used Five-point Likert scale to

accommodate the respondents for honest and unbiased answers. It also consisted of a multiple-

choice question, yes or no question and an open-ended question for maximum validity and

reliability for the respondent’s response.

 The second instrument used in the research was litmus paper. It is simple and easy to use,

and comparatively less expensive. pH paper is also mobile and is easy to store, well suited for field

work especially in student environments, to specifically identify the respondent’s pH level, to test

whether the saliva is acidic or alkaline. The result was revealed in the color designator on the

litmus paper for the specific pH of the sample; with the consultation of professionals in identifying

the respondents’ pH level. Results from the latest oral examination held by the school was used in

order to acquire the information on the respondent’s oral health.

Validity. An instrument validation form was created to be checked by the validators;

enabling the confirmation of the specific attributes significant to the study and was created to be

able to determine whether the inferences made about the results of the assessment are meaningful

and serve the purpose of the assessment.

Reliability. After the revision of the instrument, it underwent reliability test. Internal

consistency of the instrument was examined using Cronbach Alpha (). The reliability test results

are presented in Table 2.

Table 2

Reliability Results of Instruments Used in the Study

Variables Measured No. of Items Retained Cronbach’s Alpha

Oral Health Assessment 6 0.536

Diet Assessment 6 0.455
Data Gathering Procedure

In order to gather all the necessary information that the researchers need, a letter of

request was handed to the administration for approval. Once the consent was approved, the

researchers started to formulate the survey questionnaires. The questionnaires were validated by

three teachers to help the survey be appropriate or reader friendly. After the questionnaires were

validated, the gathering of respondents and distributing of questionnaires were performed. The

research required supervision of the elementary respondents; therefore, parent’s consent was

given beforehand. For every subject, short examination was conducted, which was the measuring

of the saliva pH and it was done the same day of the survey questionnaires was distributed. In

order to provide more reliable data, the dental records of elementary and high school respondents

were retrieved from the student’s previous dental examination from the school. While the dental

records of the college respondents were retrieved from the College of Dentistry archives. The

researchers provided a letter of consent to assure that the information will be remain confidential

and for research purposes only. After gathering all the needed data, it went through a reliability

test; however, the results were below the acceptable range that will make the questions reliable

and due to time constraints the researchers cannot resurvey.

Data Analysis

The data collected were tabulated in SPSS version 20 to obtain the necessary statistical

treatment for interpretation.

1. Descriptive statistics of frequency and mean was applied to get the:

a. Demographic profile of the respondents

b. Status of the respondents’ oral health in terms of their pH level of saliva

c. Status of the respondents’ oral health in terms of their dental condition

d. Diet the respondents’ practice

2. Independent Samples T Test was used to find if there are any significant difference in the oral

health status in terms of gender moderator. While Kruskal-Wallis Test was used to find if there

are any significant difference in the oral health status in terms of age and socio-economic status

moderators.

3. One – Way ANOVA was used to find which among the independent variables: non-vegetarian

diet and vegetarian diet best influence the respondents’ oral health. Descriptive statistics of

frequency was applied to compare the oral health between vegetarian and non-vegetarian.

4. Content analysis was used to analyze the data from open-ended questions.
 Chapter 4

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

This chapter presents, analyzes, and interprets data gathered from various sources and

distributed questionnaire in determining the comparison of oral health among persons who eat

vegetarian and non-vegetarian diet, followed by a discussion of the research findings. The findings

relate to the research questions that guided the study. The results and discussion are presented

according to the sequence of research questions.

Status of the respondents’ oral health in terms of pH levels of saliva and mouth condition

Table 3 shows the status of respondents’ oral health in terms of pH level: Among the 64

respondents, 9 (14.10%) of them have acidic pH level, 29 (45.30%) of them have neutral pH level,

26 (40.60%) of them have alkaline pH level.

Table 3

Respondents’ Oral Health Assessment

Oral Health Frequency Percentage (%)

pH level Acidic 9 14.10

Neutral 29 45.30
Alkaline 26 40.60
Total 64 100.00
Results show that respondents that have a neutral pH level covers large portion of the

sample. 45.30% have a neutral pH level of saliva. A normal pH range for saliva is 6.2 to 7.6 which

shows that a normal pH level for saliva needs to be close to water (Frothingham, 2018). After
eating, the saliva pH should naturally rise to 7.8 as it is needed to assimilate food (Complementary

Compunding Services, 2016). This reflects the number of respondents who have alkaline pH

saliva. While acidic saliva usually leads to discomfort and future complications (Frothingham,

2018).

The items, means, standard deviation and qualitative descriptors of the respondents’ oral

health assessment is presented in Table 4.

According to the respondents, often they experience sensitivity to hot or cold food with a

mean of 3.69 and standard deviation of 1.03. They often experience persistent bad breath (M =

3.89; SD = 1.03), and they often avoid particular food because of problems with their teeth or

mouth (M = 3.91; SD = 1.33). They often experience oral health pain (M – 3.94; SD= .92). The

respondents sometimes visit their dentist for check-up, examination, or cleaning (M = 3.08; SD =

1.25) and sometimes have had a dentist appointment int the last 4 months (M = 2,82; SD = 1.54).

The respondents’ oral health status is good (M = 3.55; SD = .67).

Table 4

Respondents’ Oral Health Assessment

Item Items Mean SD Qualitative

No. Descriptor
6 I experience sensitivity to hot or cold food. 3.69 1.18 Often
5 I experience persistent bad breath. 3.89 1.03 Often
4 I avoid particular food because of problems with my 3.91 1.33 Often
teeth or mouth.
3 I experience oral health pain. 3.94 .92 Often
2 I visit my dentist for check-up, examination or cleaning. 3.08 1.25 Sometimes
1 I have had a dentist appointment in the last 4 months. 2.82 1.54 Sometimes
Oral health Assessment 3.55 .67 Fair
 Results showed that the oral health assessment of the respondents is only fair and that they

often experience oral discomfort. The results abide with the previous researches mentioned in the

review of related literature found in chapter two which shows that oral health is one of the world’s

most common problems (Jin, Lamster, Greenspan, Pitts, Scully, & Warnakulasuriya, 2015) and

that in the Philippines oral diseases remain one of the biggest public health problem (Castillo,

2017).

It is also revealed that the respondents only sometimes visit their dentist for check-up,

examination or cleaning. They also sometimes have a dentist appointment in the last 4 months.

The result follows the previous research of Dr. Rickman Cabello which shows that dental care is

the most neglected aspect of Philippine health and wellness (Newman M. B., 2018).

Respondents’ Diet

Refer to table 5 for the respondents’ diet that they practice. The total number of respondents

gathered is 64 (100%). In which, 32 (50%) of them are vegetarian and the other 32 (50%) of them

are non-vegetarian.

Table 5

Diet the respondents’ practice

Diet Frequency Percent

Vegetarian 32 50
Non-Vegetarian 32 50
Total 64 100
 The items, means, standard deviation and qualitative descriptors of the respondents’ diet

assessment is presented in Table 6.

According to the respondents, oftentimes they eat fruits and vegetables in their diet with a

mean of 4.00 and standard deviation of .93. They sometimes drink beverages (soda, coffee, energy

dinks or tea) (M = 3.03; SD = 1.40), and they sometimes eat sweets (M = 2.52; SD = .1.02).

According to the vegetarian respondents, they rarely consume no products of animal origin

(Vegan) (M = 1.84; SD = 1.57). They rarely consume egg but not milk products in their diet (Ovo)

(M = 1.59; SD = 1.27), and they never consume milk products but not eggs in their diet (Lacto)

(M = 1.25; SD - .76). The respondents’ diet assessment is average (M = 2.66; SD = .67).

Table 6

Respondents’ Diet Assessment

Item Items Mean SD Qualitative

No. Descriptor
13 Fruits and vegetables are my diet. 4.00 .93 Often
12 I drink beverages (soda, coffee, energy drinks or tea) 3.03 1.40 Sometimes
11 I eat sweets 2.52 1.02 Sometimes
10 I consume no products of animal origin. (Vegan) 1.84 1.57 Rarely
8 I consume eggs but not milk products in my diet. (Ovo) 1.59 1.27 Rarely
7 I consume milk products but not eggs in my diet. 1.25 .76 Never
(Lacto)
Diet Assessment 2.66 .67 Average

Results show that most of the respondents often eat fruits and vegetables including non-

vegetarians. This conclude that most of non-vegetarians follow a flexitarian diet. The Flexitarian

diet is a type of eating which mainly promotes plant-based food, while at the same time allowing

meat in moderation. Since flexitarian diet eat animal products, it is not considered vegetarian. It is

semi-vegetarian style of eating that encourages less meat and more vegetables (Streit, 2018).
People sought this kind of diet because of its less rigid nature compared to vegetarianism. The diet

took second in the easiest diets to follow in 2019. It also ranked no.3 in the Best Diets Overall

category in 2019 (Taub-Dix, 2019). This conclusion is understandable since the students are from

a Seventh-Day Adventist (SDA) institution which promotes a vegetarian diet that avoids the

consumption of meat (Adventist Organization , 2013).

Results reveal that though the respondents who answered item numbers 7 to 10 are

vegetarian, they rarely follow a strict Vegan and Ovo Diet while they never considered following

a Lacto diet. This also means that even the vegetarian respondents eat non-vegetarian food but

only on rare occasions. This phenomenon can’t be avoided since Filipino cuisines are mostly meat-

based. Foreign vegans visiting the country have warned about the difficulty of finding a restaurant

without meat (Joven, 2018). Huffington Post published an article where it noted Philippines as one

of the worst countries to visit as a vegan (ABS-CBN news, 2014).

Significant difference between the respondents’ oral health and the moderators

Table 7 shows the T-test of the moderator gender on oral health status of the respondents.

The gender moderator does not show a significant difference on the respondents’ oral health. Male

and Female moderator does not show any significant difference on the respondents’ oral health.

These values indicate that gender have no influence on the oral health status of a respondent that

would cause a significant difference to their oral health status.

This result implies the acceptance of the hypothesis stating there is no significant difference

in the oral health in terms of gender.

Table 7

Significant difference between the respondents’ oral health and gender

Dependent Moderator N Mean SD tvalue sig Verbal

Variable Interpretation
Oral Health Gender Male 28 3.67 .64 1.27 .599 Not Significant
Female 36 3.46 .69

Present study's data concerning caries prevalence indicated that young males and females

had an almost similar risk of developing caries. This finding contradicts to what is widely known

and documented, according to which higher rates of caries have been observed among women than

men. Yet it is in accordance with relatively recent studies in other countries. Consequently, caries

experience differences by gender appear to have decreased during the last few years but this is

attributable to as yet unknown factors (Mamai-Homata, Koletsi-Kounari, & Margaritis, 2016).

Table 8 shows the Kruskal-Wallis Test of the moderators: age and socio-economic status

on oral health status of the respondents. Among the identified moderators, none of the moderators

show a significant difference on the respondents’ oral health. Age and socio-economic status do
not show any significant difference on the respondents’ oral health. These vales indicate that age

and socio-economic status have no influence on the oral health status of a respondent that would

cause a significant difference to their oral health status.

This result implies the acceptance of the hypothesis stating there is no significant difference

in the oral health in terms of: age, and socio-economic status.

Table 8

Significant difference between the respondents’ oral health and the moderators: age and socio-

economic status

Dependent Moderator N Mean sig Verbal

Variable Rank interpretation
Oral Health Age 12 yrs. old and below 16 28.56 .324 Not Significant
13-15 yrs. old 15 28.80
16-18 yrs. old 13 40.50
19-21 yrs. old 10 37.15
22 yrs. old and above 10 29.30
Total 64
Socio-
economic Below 30,000 29 34.05 .459 Not Significant
Status 30,001 – 50,000 15 30.17
(monthly 50,001 – 70,000 10 31.75
income) 70,001 – 90,000 4 32.50
Above 90,000 6 32.08
Total 64

The respondents gathered are ages 9 to 24 in which dental aging sign are not yet exhibited

at this stage. Research shows that gingival recession is most common among adults over the age

of 40 (Cherney, 2017). Dry mouth is seen in most elderly people but that is because of the

medication they intake. There are about 35,000 cases of mouth, throat, and tongue cancer

diagnosed each year in which the average age of most people diagnosed with these cancers is 62
(American Dental Association, 2012). This also supported a reviewed study of 68 elderly in

chapter two which shows that medicine use influences the results of low salivary flow and saliva

pH of elderly people (Saintrain & Gonçalves, 2013). According to studies, signs of aging appear

at the age of mid-20’s (ABC Science, 2015).

A study done by Dantas, L., Gerard, M., Isong, I. and Kuhlthau, K. (2014) shows that,

some parents or their children are afraid of the dentist that prevents them from getting PDC

(Preventive Dental Care) regardless their status. In addition, the study they did includes low-

income African-American population in Detroit, and their findings showed that parents that

receives PDC were five times more likely to seek oral health care for their children as well. The

disparities on oral health, the efforts on primary prevention, improvements of quality of care, and

reduce costs will be a failure if oral health literacy of the public, health care providers and policy

makers are not a subject for simultaneous improvements; and making sure that dental facilities are

user-friendly and that the oral health literacy of all groups is improving or up to date will lessen or

diminish the disparities (Horowitz & Kleinman, 2012).

Influencers of Oral Health

Table 9 shows One-way ANOVA analysis of vegetarian diet and non-vegetarian diet on

oral health status of the respondents.

Among the identified independent variables, none of the diets best influence the oral health

status of the respondents. Vegetarian diet and non-vegetarian diet do not show any significant

impacts that may contribute to acquire the optimum oral health. These values indicate that both

independent variables are not significant factors that can predict better oral health.

Furthermore, these findings indicate the acceptance of the hypothesis stating none among

the independent variable best influence the oral health status of the respondent.
Table 9

One-way ANOVA analysis to see which diet most influence the oral health status of the respondents

Variables Fvalue Fsig

Vegetarian Diet 1.806 .123

Non-vegetarian Diet 1.249 .328

Table 9 shows the frequency of the pH level which was examined through the use of litmus

paper and the frequency of the number of dental caries, number of teeth needed for extraction,

number of teeth needed for filling, and recommendation of dentist gathered from their respective

dental records.

Vegetarian diet and non-vegetarian diet do not show any significant impacts that may

contribute to the oral health of the respondents. These values indicate that both independent

variables are not significant factors that can predict better oral health.

Furthermore, these findings indicate the acceptance of the hypothesis stating none among

the independent variable best influence the oral health status of the respondent.

Table 9

Status of respondents’ oral health in terms

Respondent Oral Health Frequency Percentage

(%)
Vegetarian pH level Acidic 5 15.60
Neutral 12 37.50
Alkaline 15 46.90
Total 32 100.00
Number of dental caries 1 to 2 7 21.90
3 to 4 8 25.00
5 and above 14 43.80
None 3 9.40
Total 32 100.00
Number of teeth needed for 1 to 2 6 18.80
extractions 3 to 4 2 6.30
5 and above 0 0.00
None 24 75.00
Total 32 100.00
Number of teeth needed for 1 to 2 12 37.50
fillings 3 to 4 7 21.90
5 and above 7 21.90
None 6 18.80
Total 32 100.00
Recommendation of Dentist No dental caries 3 9.70
*no indication **1 3.1
Needs personal 5 16.10
attention in tooth
brushing
***no indication **1 3.1
Needs oral prophylaxis 25 80.60
***no indication **1 3.1
Needs orthodontics, 8 25.80
periodontics,
endodontics
***no indication **1 3.1
Non- pH level Acidic 4 12.50
vegetarian Neutral 17 53.10
Alkaline 11 34.40
Total 32 100.00
Number of dental caries 1 to 2 4 12.50
3 to 4 4 12.50
5 and above 16 50.00
None 8 25.00
Total 32 100.00
Number of teeth needed for 1 to 2 6 18.80
extractions 3 to 4 2 6.30
5 and above 0 0.00
None 24 75.00
Total 32 100.00
Number of teeth needed for 1 to 2 6 18.80
fillings 3 to 4 3 9.40
5 and above 9 28.10
None 14 43.80
Total 32 100.00
Recommendation of Dentist No dental caries 8 26.70
***no indication **2 6.3
Needs personal 0 0.00
attention in tooth
brushing
***no indication **2 6.3
Needs oral prophylaxis 27 90.00
***no indication **2 6.3
Needs orthodontics, 9 30.00
periodontics,
endodontics
***no indication **2 6.3
 Results show no significant difference of the oral health status between vegetarians and non-

vegetarians. Among 32 vegetarian respondents, 5 or 15.60% of them have an acidic pH saliva

while there are 4 or 12.50% of non-vegetarian respondents who have acidic pH saliva. These

marginal differences are not enough to conclude that any of the diet is best for the oral health of

a person.

It also shows that the respondents who have a greater number of people who have no dental

caries are non-vegetarians. Among the 32 vegetarian respondents, 3 or 9.40% of them have no

dental caries while there are 8 or 25% of non-vegetarian respondents who have no dental caries.

Nevertheless, there is a greater number of non-vegetarian respondents who have 5 and above

dental caries than vegetarian respondents. Among 32 non-vegetarian respondents, there are 16 or

50% of non-vegetarian respondents who have 5 and above dental caries while there are 14 or

43.80% of vegetarian respondents who have 5 and above dental caries. These results are not

enough to conclude that any of the diet most influence the oral health status of a person.

In the number of teeth needed for fillings, non-vegetarian respondents have a greater number

of respondents who have no teeth needed for fillings compared to vegetarians. There are 14 or

43.80% of non-vegetarian respondents who have no teeth needed for fillings compared to 6 or

18.80% of vegetarians. Non-vegetarian respondents also have a lesser number of respondents

who have 1 to 2 number of teeth needed for fillings compared to vegetarians. Among the 32 non-

vegetarians, there are 6 or 18.80% who have 1 to 2 number of teeth needed for fillings while

there are 12 or 37.50% vegetarian respondents who fall in the same category. However, non-

vegetarians have a greater number of respondents who have 9 and above teeth needed for filling

than non-vegetarians. There are 9 or 28.10% non-vegetarians who have 9 and above teeth needed
for fillings while there are 7 or 21.90% vegetarians who have 9 and above teeth needed for

fillings. These results are not sufficient to deduce that any of the diet has the most influence to

the oral health of a person.

5 or 16.10% of vegetarians needs personal attention to tooth brushing while there are no

non-vegetarians who need it. On the other hand, there are more non-vegetarian respondents who

needs oral prophylaxis than vegetarian respondents. These results are not enough to that

conclude that both diets are significant factors to predict a better oral health.

A research showed that there was no significant difference of teeth erosion prevalence

between vegetarian and non-vegetarian adolescents that was consistent with (Al-Dlaigan et al).

study. The aforementioned discrepancy shows that this issue requires further research

(Chrysanthakopoulos, 2012).

In another study entitled dental caries and its association with present day dietary

patterns: a cross-sectional study. In both groups (vegetarian and mixed), the present study found

no statistically significant difference in the status of dental caries among subjects (Munjal,

Talwar, Singh, Kumar, & Gambhir, 2018).

Perception of the respondents towards the effect of food to oral health

The respondents were given an open-ended question for them to give feedbacks toward

their beliefs on their diet and its relation towards their oral health. The answers they gave were

sorted accordingly and the feedbacks resulted into 6 statements. In which 5 (8%) of the respondents

who believed that the food they ate had an effect to their oral health in a good way, 20 (32.3%) of

the respondents believed that some food gives bad effect on their oral health, 26 (41.9%) of the

respondents believed that the food they ate had an effect on their oral health, which in contrast, 4
(6.5%) did not believe that the food they eat have any effects, 3 (4.8%) was indecisive and 4 (6.5%)

of them gave no feedback toward the question.

Below are some of the feedbacks of the respondent towards their beliefs and knowledge
regarding the food they eat and if they believe that the food that they eat influences their oral
health.
“…the food you consume affects your oral health but I think how you clean and how you protect
your oral cavity is a huge factor on your oral health.” (Student 204)
“… I believe the foods we eat have different components that affect our oral, negatively or
positively.” (Student 206)
“I don’t believe so.” (Student 205)
“it depends on the food because junk foods will make your breath stink and fruits will make your
breath good.” (Student 202)
“Yes, because all what we eat can be cavity.” (Student 201)

Table 6
Summary feedbacks of the respondents towards their beliefs on their diet and mouth condition.
Feedbacks Frequency Percent
Respondents who believes that the food they eat affects their oral health
in a good way. 5 8%
Respondent who believes that some food gives a bad effect on their oral
health 20 32.3%
Respondents who believes that the food they eat have effects on their
oral health 26 41.9%
Respondents gave no respond/feedbacks. 4 6.5%
Respondents who don’t believe that the food they eat have effects. 4 6.5%
Respondents are indecisive. (Not sure/ it depends on the food.) 3 4.8%

Food positively affects oral health

There are respondents who said food positively affects their oral health. The same situation

is found in a qualitative study which showed that according to mothers, nutrition was one of the

main factors in affecting the oral health of the children. In their statements, changing dietary habits

were identified as the main item to maintain dental health for their children especially following a
diet that involves healthy foods that positively affects the children’s oral health (Momeni ,

Sargeran , Yazdani , & Sighaldeh , 2017)

Food negatively affects oral health

There are other respondents that said food negatively affects oral health. This abide with

a study which shows the same response in which according to the study’s respondents, food like

sugar and drinks have harmful effects to the oral health of a person (Matsuda & Stridiron, 2017).

Food does not affect oral health

There are respondents who claim to not agree that their current diet does not affect the

oral health status in which reply in disagreement, this is supported by the conclusion of a study

entitled “Dentists’ Dietary Perception and Practice Patterns in a Dental Practice-Based Research

Network” which shows that there are some discordance that exists between dentists’ perception

of the importance of diet in caries treatment planning (Yokoyama , et al., 2013).

No response
There are respondents who had no prior knowledge of the subject or no reply at all. This

can be referred to a similar occurrence in a study conducted with respondents replying that they

do not have the sufficient knowledge nor authority to answer such questions because it is only a

dental professional who have the qualifications to determine nutritional risks that can affect the

oral health of a patient (Sivakumar, et al., 2016).

 Chapter 5

SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATION

This chapter represents the summary of findings from the result of the study, conclusion

and recommendations based on the results of the findings.

Summary of Findings

Based on the results, it shows that respondents with a neutral pH level covered a large

portion of the sample based on the results with alkaline pH level as the second largest portion of

the sample and acidic pH level as the least. Results showed that the oral health assessment of the

respondents is only fair and that they often experience oral discomfort. It is also revealed that the

respondents only sometimes visit their dentist for check-up, examination or cleaning. They also

sometimes have a dentist appointment in the last 4 months.

Most respondents, including non-vegetarians, often eat fruits and vegetables. This

concludes that most vegetarians are following a flexitarian diet. This conclusion is

understandable as the students come from an SDA institution which promotes vegetarian diet.

Results reveal that vegetarian respondents rarely follow a vegan and ovo-vegetarian diet

while they never considering following a Lacto diet. It also revealed that vegetarians on rare

occasions eat non-vegetarian food which can’t be avoided due to the meat-based cuisines of

Filipinos.

Results revealed that gender has no influence on a respondent’s oral health status and that

there is a similar risk of developing dental caries to both genders. Additionally, the moderators age
and socio-economic status showed no significant difference in oral health of the respondents.

These values indicate that age and socio-economic status do not affect a respondent’s oral health

status.

Among the identified independent variables, vegetarian and non-vegetarian diet, none

of the diets best influence the oral health status of the respondents. Vegetarian diet and non-

vegetarian diet do not show any significant impacts that may contribute to acquire the optimum

oral health. These values indicate that both independent variables are not significant factors that

can predict better oral health.

Conclusion

The research study concluded that there is no significant difference between the two

diets. Also, the moderators: age, gender, and socio-economic status, does not have any

significant influence to the oral health status of the respondent. According to the results, the

respondents sometimes visit their dentist for dental checkup which support the claim of past

studies that dental care is neglected here in the Philippines. With a reliability score of 0.536 for

oral health assessment and 0.455 for diet assessment., it would appear logical to undertake a pilot

study in order to achieve a reliability score that would present the study as reliable. Having a

balanced diet and eating food in moderation are the keys for having a good oral health status.

Diet, age, gender and socio-economic status may not affect the oral health status of a person but

awareness in this issue is needed in order to maintain a good oral health status.

Recommendations

In consideration to the findings and conclusion, the following recommendations were

offered:
1. For the school administration, the food that is intended for breakfast or lunch must be

balanced. We recommend the school canteen to follow the recommended food plate

(Harvard University, 2013).

2. Due to the lack of information about oral health, the school should have seminars or

forums that talk about good diet and the proper of taking care of the oral health.

3. The dental clinic should have dental checkup to universities every 4 months. It can help

the students to have a good oral health status.

4. Parents or guardians should have a balanced meal in their homes. It can help each

individual to practice good diet because it will start in the home.

5. To the future researchers, a more detailed survey questionnaire should be formulated

in order to gather a reliable result. A better and more precise laboratory testing that may

give more accurate outcome is recommended for further future study.

6. Practicing proper oral health care like brushing the teeth 3 times a day, visiting the

dentist for regular checkup, flossing and many more can help lessen the possibility of

having dental caries.

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