Parental factors influencing children's oral health in Saudi Arabia: a narrative review.

Abstract

Children's oral health is strongly shaped by family-level influences, yet the role of parental factors in Saudi Arabia has not been comprehensively synthesized. This narrative review aims to examine the influence of parental knowledge, attitudes, practices, education, socioeconomic status, and psychological factors on children's oral health outcomes in Saudi Arabia. A structured search of five electronic databases was undertaken, and eligible studies were narratively synthesized in accordance with the Scale for the Assessment of Narrative Review Articles (SANRA). Included studies were evaluated for parental factors influencing dental disease prevalence, dental attendance patterns, orthodontic treatment demand, oral healthcare for children with special needs, and the role of dental professionals. Parental oral health literacy was consistently associated with children's brushing habits, dietary practices, and utilization of preventive dental services. Misconceptions regarding the importance of primary teeth, delayed first dental visits, and treatment-seeking only when symptoms occurred were frequently reported. Dental caries, particularly early childhood caries, remained highly prevalent across regions and was strongly linked to inadequate parental supervision, cariogenic feeding practices, and socioeconomic disadvantage. Children with special healthcare needs experienced greater oral disease burden and faced additional barriers related to access and delivery of dental care. Orthodontic treatment demand was influenced by parental perceptions, aesthetic concerns, and financial considerations. Parental dental anxiety was also associated with child fear and avoidance of dental care. Furthermore, variability in preventive practices among dental professionals highlighted opportunities for strengthening professional education and early intervention systems. Improving pediatric oral health in Saudi Arabia requires family-centered and prevention-oriented strategies that address both behavioral and structural barriers. Enhancing parental oral health literacy, promoting early routine dental attendance, expanding inclusive care services, and integrating oral health promotion into primary healthcare may substantially reduce the burden of preventable oral disease among Saudi children.