Influence of family environment on children's oral health: a systematic review

Abstract

Objective: To review current models and scientific evidence on the influence of parents' oral health behaviors on their children's dental caries.

Sources: MEDLINE articles published between 1980 and June, 2012. Original research articles on parents' oral health behavior were reviewed. A total of 218 citations were retrieved, and 13 articles were included in the analysis. The studies were eligible for review if they matched the following inclusion criteria: (1) they evaluated a possible association between dental caries and parents' oral-health-related behaviors, and (2) the study methodology included oral clinical examination. The main search terms were "oral health", "parental attitudes", "parental knowledge", and "dental caries".

Summary of the findings: : 13 experimental studies contributed data to the synthesis. Original articles, reviews, and chapters in textbooks were also considered.

Conclusion: Parents' dental health habits influence their children's oral health. Oral health education programs aimed at preventive actions are needed to provide children not only with adequate oral health, but better quality of life. Special attention should be given to the entire family, concerning their lifestyle and oral health habits.