RESUMEN
This study was conducted to provide basic information snack intake frequency, eating patterns and current dental caries in high school students. A total of 626 students (333 males, 293 females) in Gimhae city participated in this study. The survey conducted by using a self-administered questionnaire in January, 2008. Dental caries-related information was obtained during the students' physical examination at the designated clinical hospital in 2007. The results were as follows. Sixty three point nine percent of the students were shown to have dental caries, which includes a sealant. The average number of dental caries was 3.1, which was greater in female than in male students (p < 0.001). Eighty six percent of the students were shown to maintain correct toothbrushing habits to prevent dental caries. Twenty percent of the participants brushed there teeth 'instantly' a meal or snack, and 27.3% of the participants brushed there teeth, gum and tongue, and 58.9% of the participants received toothbrushing education. In snack intake frequency, participants with no dental caries had preference to white milk whereas those with dental caries had preference to snacks such as chewing gums and carbonated beverages. Female students were shown to have more dental caries maybe because of their higher snack intake frequency in chocolate, cookies and chips, yoghurt and ice-cream. Dental caries did not affect eating behaviors. This study suggests that more education for correct toothbrushing and cariogenic and detergent foods are needed for better dental hygiene.