The influence factors on pit and fissure sealing behavior of 12-year-old children: a cross-sectional study in Zhejiang, China

BackgroundIn the 21st century, dental caries remains a global burden, particularly severely affecting the growth and quality of life of 12-year-old children. Fortunately, pit and fissure sealing (PFS) procedures can effectively prevent molars from caries. Hence, this study focused on the relationship between PFS and oral epidemiological factors in 12-year-old children. MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted in 12-year-old children from 11 cities in Zhejiang Province. Their dental conditions were collected through questionnaires, as well as basic information such as relevant family information, oral health knowledge and behavior. Then, logistic regression analysis was used to identify the influencing factors associated with PFS. ResultsA total of 1204 children were included, with 252 in the PFS group and 952 in the non-PFS group. There were significant differences between the two groups in terms of decayed, missing and filled teeth (DMFT) score, first permanent molar DMFT score, residential area, educational level of parents, tooth-brushing frequency, use of dental floss, oral examination in a medical institution, having taken courses on oral health care, as well as having knowledge that tooth brushing could effectively prevent gingival inflammation, PFS could protect teeth, and oral disease may affect general health. According to further logistic regression analysis, the independent factors influencing PFS included use of dental floss [odds ratios (OR) = 1.672, 95% confidence intervals (CI) = 1.235-2.263, P = 0.001], having taken courses on oral health care (OR = 0.713, 95% CI = 0.515-0.988, P = 0.042), having knowledge that tooth brushing is effective in preventing gingival inflammation (OR = 0.627, 95% CI = 0.389-0.987, P = 0.044) and having knowledge that PFS can protect teeth (OR = 0.589, 95% CI = 0.438-0.791, P < 0.001). ConclusionPFS can reduce the mean DMFT score of 12-year-old children. Independent influencing factors of PFS consist of use of dental floss, having taken courses on oral health care, oral health behavior and knowledge level.