Work

An evaluation of the association between oral health status and academic performance among primary school students

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This study aimed to examine the association between oral health status and academic performance among primary school-aged children. Poor oral health is a significant public health concern with adverse effects on quality of life, cognitive development, and school attendance, ultimately compromising educational outcomes. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 510 children aged 6–10 years enrolled in a public primary school. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, number of decayed teeth, oral health behaviours, academic achievement, and absenteeism were collected using a structured parent–child questionnaire. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS, employing chi-square tests for categorical variables and Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney U tests for quantitative data. School absenteeism due to toothache or other oral problems was significantly higher in children with ≥ 5 decayed teeth and lower in caries-free children ( p = 0.000). Caries-free children experienced fewer oral health-related difficulties, including concentration, sleep, and nutritional problems ( p = 0.000). Absenteeism was significantly greater among children reporting toothache ( p = 0.017). Poor oral health and untreated caries are associated with increased absenteeism and factors negatively affecting academic performance. Promoting good oral health may contribute to improved educational outcomes in children.

Source: BMC Oral Health

DOI: 10.1186/s12903-026-09618-3

Authors: Öykü Peker Gönülal, Kübra Arslan Çarpar

Institution: Mersin Üniversitesi

Language: English

Topic: Dental Health and Care Utilization

Subfield: General Dentistry

Field: Dentistry

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Quality education

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,190