Background of the study
Dietary habits play a critical role in shaping dental morphology, impacting tooth development, enamel strength, and overall oral health. In Uyo Local Government Area, residents exhibit a diverse range of dietary practices influenced by both traditional cuisines and modern fast-food culture (Etuk, 2023). Traditional diets, rich in natural, unprocessed foods, have long been associated with robust dental structures and lower incidences of dental decay. However, the increasing consumption of processed foods and sugars has led to observable changes in dental morphology, including higher rates of dental caries and enamel erosion (Obong, 2024). Recent studies have highlighted the correlation between nutrition and dental development, emphasizing the need to understand how modern dietary trends affect oral health in indigenous populations (Ifeanyi, 2025). This study critically evaluates the influence of varying dietary habits on dental morphology among residents, aiming to establish links between nutritional intake and structural dental changes while identifying potential public health interventions.
Statement of the problem
The shift in dietary habits among residents of Uyo has led to notable changes in dental morphology, raising concerns about oral health deterioration. The increasing prevalence of processed foods and sugars appears to contribute to higher incidences of dental caries and enamel degradation. This study seeks to investigate the specific dietary factors influencing dental morphology, aiming to understand the implications of modern eating habits on traditional oral health patterns. Addressing this problem is crucial for developing effective public health strategies (Etuk, 2023).
Objectives of the study
To evaluate the relationship between dietary habits and dental morphology.
To identify specific dietary factors influencing oral health.
To recommend public health interventions to improve dental outcomes.
Research questions
How do dietary habits affect dental morphology in Uyo?
Which dietary factors have the greatest impact on oral health?
What interventions can improve dental health outcomes?
Research Hypotheses
Dietary habits significantly influence dental morphology.
High sugar and processed food consumption negatively affect dental health.
Nutritional interventions can improve dental morphology.
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it establishes the link between dietary habits and dental morphology, offering insights that can inform public health policies and nutritional education programs. Its outcomes are essential for improving oral health among residents of Uyo (Obong, 2024).
Scope and limitations of the study
This study is limited to evaluating dietary habits and their influence on dental morphology among residents of Uyo Local Government Area and does not address other factors affecting oral health.
Definitions of terms
Dietary habits: The customary food consumption patterns of a population.
Dental morphology: The structure and form of teeth.
Oral health: The overall condition of the mouth and teeth.
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