[Analysis of dental caries characteristics and influencing factors based on structural equation modeling among primary and secondary school students in Hunan Province].

OBJECTIVES

This study explores the differences in the characteristics and influencing factors of dental ca-ries in primary and secondary school students in Hunan Province, aiming to prevent and control dental caries.

METHODS

The multistage stratified cluster random sampling method was used to select 265 985 primary and secondary school students across Hunan. Participants completed a nationally standardized questionnaire and underwent physical examinations. Statistical description was used to analyze caries characteristics, and structural equation modeling was used to analyze influencing factors.

RESULTS

The caries prevalence rate of primary school students was 69.60%, and the decayed, missing, filled teeth (DMFT) index was 3.05±3.30; for secondary school students, the figures were 54.30% and 1.73±2.31, respectively. Structural equation modeling revealed that caries risk in primary and secondary school students was influenced by demographic characteristics (β=0.384 and -0.025), school-based prevention and control (β=0.033 and -0.067), dietary behavior habits (β=0.043 and 0.032), and family size (β=0.024 and 0.009). In secondary school students, psychological factors were additionally associated with caries risk (β=0.024).

CONCLUSIONS

Dental caries prevalence and mean DMFT are high among primary and secondary students in Hunan, associated with demographic characteristics, school prevention policies, dietary and hygiene ha-bits, and household size. Targeted interventions addressing these factors are essential for preventing and controlling dental caries and promoting oral health among students.