Perceived Oral Health Status, Oral Health Behavior, and Care Utilization in Students With Visual Impairments: A Parental Perspective

Abstract

Objectives: To assess parents’ perceived oral health status, oral hygiene behaviors, and dental care for their children with visual impairments (VI). Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among parents of students with VI attending special schools in Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia. Convenience sampling was used to recruit the participants. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive and analytical statistics were used for data analysis. Results: Seventy-seven parents completed the survey (response rate: 63.6%). Most children were aged 6–11 years (38.9%). Tooth brushing varied: 16.9% brushed at least twice a day; 40.2% brushed irregularly; 7.8% flossed regularly; and 49.3% consumed sweets once or twice a day. Parents’ perceptions of their children's oral health were as follows: positive, 61.0%; fair or poor, 39.0%. A significant association was found between sweets intake frequency and perceived oral health status (p = 0.035). Many of the children had not visited a dentist for over a year (29.9%) or had never visited one (25.9%). Conclusion: There is a need to enhance oral health promotion and dental care access for students with VI. A collaborative approach involving teachers, parents, and dental professionals is recommended to support their oral health needs.