Year : 2024

Volume : Volume 16

Issue : Issue 5

Address for correspondence :
Dr. Shiksha Nahar
shiknahar1709@gmail.com

Abstract

Background: Oral health in children is significantly influenced by parental awareness, behavior, and sociodemographic factors. According to the World Health Organization, oral health inequalities are unjust and preventable, often reflecting disparities in parental knowledge and socioeconomic status. Despite ongoing health promotion efforts, early childhood caries remains highly prevalent. While schools play a key role in education, lasting impact requires active parental involvement. This study compares the roles and awareness of parents in government and private schools in Bhopal to better understand their influence on children’s oral health and to support more inclusive, family-centered strategies. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among parents of children aged 5–12 years studying in government and private schools in Bhopal. A pre-validated online questionnaire was distributed through Google Forms to assess parental roles in children’s oral health. Permission was obtained from school authorities, and informed consent was taken from all participants. Data were collected over 2 months and analyzed using Statistical Packages of Social Sciences version 29, with P ≤ 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: A total of 240 parents participated, equally split between government (n = 120) and private (n = 120) schools. Among them, 48.3% were mothers, 44.2% fathers, and 7.5% caregivers. Half of the families were nuclear, while 35.8% were joint. Socioeconomically, 39.2% were upper middle class, 29.2% lower middle, and 23.3% upper lower class. Brushing twice daily was more common among private school children (54.5%), whereas 75% of those who rarely brushed were from government schools. Only 21.7% of parents provided fluoride toothpaste–96.2% of them from private schools. Regular oral hygiene education was reported by 71.4% of private school parents versus 28.6% of government school parents. All parents who scheduled 6-monthly check-ups were from private schools; all who never did were from government schools. Belief in the oral–general health link was stronger among private school parents (61.7% vs. 38.3%). Government school parents preferred public dental care and often relied on home remedies, whereas private school parents favored private clinics and showed greater involvement in preventive oral health measures. Conclusion: The study revealed significant differences in parental awareness and oral health practices between government and private school parents, influenced by socioeconomic factors and access to care. Private school parents showed greater involvement and knowledge, whereas government school parents faced financial and awareness-related barriers. These findings highlight the need for targeted, school-based oral health initiatives and accessible education programs to bridge gaps and promote equitable oral health outcomes among children. Keywords: Children, Government schools, Oral health, Parental role, Preventive behavior, Private schools.