The Impact of Education on Caries and Oral Hygiene Habits in 15-Year-Old Children

This cross sectional study explores the prevalence of dental caries, oral hygiene habits, and the role of education among 15 year old children. Clinical examinations and questionnaires were used to assess caries incidence, hygiene practices, and awareness of oral health. Results revealed that poor oral hygiene behaviors were strongly associated with higher caries prevalence, while adolescents with greater exposure to oral health education demonstrated lower incidence and healthier routines. The findings emphasize the importance of integrating oral health education into school programs to foster preventive practices and reduce caries risk in adolescents. This study highlights the need for targeted interventions that combine clinical care with educational strategies to improve oral health outcomes in this age group.