Effect of children's oral health on families’ quality of life: A cross-sectional study in Rafsanjan, Iran

Oral and dental health condition besides its impact on quality of life (QOL) is a significant aspect of public health appraisal. Recognition of this impact and various dimensions is required to design evidence-based programs. This study was conducted to determine the impact of children’s oral health on families’ QOL in Rafsanjan City, south of Iran, in 2017.

This descriptive cross-sectional research was carried out on 631 parents of elementary students who were selected from schools using simple random sampling. Data collecting tool was a 3-section questionnaire including demographic characteristics, Family Impact Scale (FIS), and 6 items of health behaviors associated with oral health. Data were analyzed through SPSS software using statistical tests of Pearson correlation, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), independent t-test, and chi-square test at a significance level of 0.050.

The mean score of FIS was 8.59 ± 8.20 out of 42. Major harms to family QOL occurred respectively in terms of concern about the child's future, upsetting family members, and needing more care compared to other family members. There was a significant relationship between FIS score and use of toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, junk foods, and regular check-up every 6 months (P < 0.010). Regular check-up (B = -3.54), regular brushing (B = 2.10), and less use of junk foods (B = 1.40) were three main factors in FIS (P < 0.001).

Considering the association between oral health behaviors and FIS, evidence-based interventional programs for children and parents are recommended. Also, to remove financial barriers, available and affordable services are recommended.