Factors related to children's caries: A structural equation modeling approach

Abstract

Background: Dental caries among preschool children is highly prevalent in many less-developed countries Methods: A model which explored the factors related to children's dental caries was tested in this study usin structural equation modeling. Caregivers of children aged 5 years were surveyed on their socioeconomic status and their oral health knowledge, attitudes and practices. In addition, information on their children's oral healt practices, dental insurance and dental service utilization were collected. Examination of caries was conducte on all children who returned fully completed questionnaires Results: The results showed that socioeconomic factors influenced children's oral health practices through th impact of caregivers' oral health knowledge and practices; that caregivers' oral health knowledge affected children' oral health practices through the influence of caregivers' oral health attitudes and practices; and finally, tha children's oral health practices were linked directly to their caries Conclusion: The findings have important applications for promoting policies aimed at advancing children's oral health.