This cross-sectional study empirically tested a theoretical model of pathways and
inter-relationships among community, family, and individual determinants of childhood
dental caries in a sample of 630, 6-year-old children from the Netherlands.
Children’s decayed, missing, and filled teeth (dmft) scores were extracted from dental
records. A validated parental questionnaire was used to collect data on sociodemographic
characteristics, psychosocial factors, and oral hygiene behaviours. Data
on neighbourhood quality were obtained from the Dutch Central Bureau of Statistics.
Structural equation modelling indicated that the model was valid after applying
a few modifications. In the revised model, lower maternal education level was
related to poorer family organization, lower levels of social support, lower dental
self-efficacy, and an external dental health locus of control. These, in turn, were
associated with poorer oral hygiene behaviours, which were linked to higher levels
of childhood dental caries. In addition, lower maternal education level and poorer
neighbourhood quality were directly associated with higher caries levels in children.
This model advances our understanding of determinants of childhood dental caries
and the pathways in which they operate. Conception of these pathways is essential
for guiding the development of caries-preventive programmes for children. Clues for
further development of the model are suggested.
This cross-sectional study empirically tested a theoretical model of pathways and
inter-relationships among community, family, and individual determinants of childhood
dental caries in a sample of 630, 6-year-old children from the Netherlands.
Children’s decayed, missing, and filled teeth (dmft) scores were extracted from dental
records. A validated parental questionnaire was used to collect data on sociodemographic
characteristics, psychosocial factors, and oral hygiene behaviours. Data
on neighbourhood quality were obtained from the Dutch Central Bureau of Statistics.
Structural equation modelling indicated that the model was valid after applying
a few modifications. In the revised model, lower maternal education level was
related to poorer family organization, lower levels of social support, lower dental
self-efficacy, and an external dental health locus of control. These, in turn, were
associated with poorer oral hygiene behaviours, which were linked to higher levels
of childhood dental caries. In addition, lower maternal education level and poorer
neighbourhood quality were directly associated with higher caries levels in children.
This model advances our understanding of determinants of childhood dental caries
and the pathways in which they operate. Conception of these pathways is essential
for guiding the development of caries-preventive programmes for children. Clues for
further development of the model are suggested.
การแปล กรุณารอสักครู่..
