IADR Abstract Archives
Protocols for a Study of Oral Health and Dietary Intake of Irish Elite Athletes
Objectives: Background: Good oral health and nutrition is essential for overall health, general well-being and successful sporting performance at elite level. Limited international research has previously described a higher prevalence of dental disease in elite athletes compared to the general population.
Objectives: To describe the protocols for establishing a collaborative exploratory study of the oral health and dietary pattern of elite athletes in Ireland. The initial hypothesis is that, given their high nutrient and energy requirements, the dietary pattern of elite athletes contributes to increased risk of dental caries and dental erosion and other conditions.
Methods: A collaborative group of nutritionists and dentists was established from four different academic and sports institutions to design a cross-sectional exploratory study. A convenience sample of swimmers, boxers and rowers will be selected from the Sport Ireland High Performance Unit. Following ethical approval and informed consent, the protocols will include: a standard history, a detailed questionnaire regarding sports participation, oral and general health and dietary behaviours, clinical oral examination (ICDAS, BPE & BEWE), measurement of anthropometrics, and quantitative dietary assessment (Foodbook24).
Results: All data entry will be carried out using open source data collection platforms such as Kobo Toolbox and ODK to create forms, enter and aggregate data.
Conclusions: A collaborative research group has developed protocols for assessing the oral health of high-performance elite athletes in Ireland. The study will use a suite of software tools designed for field data collection.
Objectives: To describe the protocols for establishing a collaborative exploratory study of the oral health and dietary pattern of elite athletes in Ireland. The initial hypothesis is that, given their high nutrient and energy requirements, the dietary pattern of elite athletes contributes to increased risk of dental caries and dental erosion and other conditions.
Methods: A collaborative group of nutritionists and dentists was established from four different academic and sports institutions to design a cross-sectional exploratory study. A convenience sample of swimmers, boxers and rowers will be selected from the Sport Ireland High Performance Unit. Following ethical approval and informed consent, the protocols will include: a standard history, a detailed questionnaire regarding sports participation, oral and general health and dietary behaviours, clinical oral examination (ICDAS, BPE & BEWE), measurement of anthropometrics, and quantitative dietary assessment (Foodbook24).
Results: All data entry will be carried out using open source data collection platforms such as Kobo Toolbox and ODK to create forms, enter and aggregate data.
Conclusions: A collaborative research group has developed protocols for assessing the oral health of high-performance elite athletes in Ireland. The study will use a suite of software tools designed for field data collection.