Oral Hygiene and Dietary Behaviors Among Romanian Schoolchildren: A Cross-Sectional Study
Abstract
Highlights What are the main findings? • Over two-thirds (69.8%) of Romanian schoolchildren presented visible plaque and gingival inflammation, despite a high reported frequency of toothbrushing.• The youngest age group (5–7 years) exhibited the highest prevalence of active carious lesions, revealing a critical need for early preventive action. What are the implications of the main findings? • Oral health programs should focus on improving brushing techniques and promoting the regular use of interdental hygiene aids through school-based education.• Early prevention strategies and parental engagement are essential to reduce caries incidence and establish sustainable oral hygiene behaviors from early childhood. Abstract Background/Objectives: Oral health in children remains a key public health concern, particularly in regions with limited access to preventive programs. Despite improvements in dental care availability, the prevalence of plaque accumulation, gingival inflammation, and carious lesions remains high. This study provides updated regional data for Western Romania—a population previously underrepresented in oral health surveillance—and aims to evaluate oral hygiene behaviors, dietary habits, and clinical oral health indicators among Romanian schoolchildren, identifying potential areas for preventive action. Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted in October 2025 on 202 schoolchildren aged 5–14 years from Western Romania. Data were collected…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a cross-sectional, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause.
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