THE INFLUENCE OF SOCIOECONOMIC AND BEHAVIORAL FACTORS ON DENTAL CARIES EXPERIENCE

Aim: The purpose of this study was to analyze the influence of socioeconomic and behavioral factors on the prevalence of dental caries among first grade children, aged between 6 and 8 years. Material and method: The study was conducted in two groups of subjects: the first sample comprised of 402 first grade children attending several elementary schools in Tirgu Mures, and the second group was formed by the parents of these children. The study included two assessments: children underwent clinical oral examination that included the establishment of their dental health status, and parents were asked to complete a questionnaire regarding their educational level, the dental care of their children and their knowledge about dental caries. Results: The parents' educational level reflected in the prevalence of dental caries among their children; regular dental check-ups were reported mostly by the respondents with higher education; most parents knew the causes of dental caries; most dental visits were due to acute dental symptoms. Conclusions: Socioeconomic and behavioral factors influenced the carious experience of the subjects. This study confirms the need for dental health education among both children and parents.