Effect of family cohesion on oral health predictors in children and adolescents: A systematic review.

Objective: The family environment influences oral health conditions and the utilization of dental services. The emotional link between the family members and the degree to which they are resilient and close to each other is represented as family cohesion and adaptability. This systematic review critically appraises and synthesizes existing evidence on the effect of family cohesion on oral health predictors in children and adolescents.

Methods: The protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023453608). Databases such as PubMed, Embase, and Scopus were electronically searched in September 2023. No restriction of time frame was allowed. Risk of bias was assessed using the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality tool.

Results: Initially, 272 records were identified from PubMed (133), Embase (122) and Scopus (10) databases and other sources, finally leading to 12 cross-sectional studies to be included. Eleven studies were carried out in Brazil and one in USA. Only one study reported moderate risk, whereas the others all reported low risk of bias. The studies were carried out from 2013-2023. The frequency of dental visits, oral health literacy, and self-perceived need for dental treatment were reported to be higher in families with the better cohesive ties. An inconsistent direct association was reported between dental caries and family cohesion.

Conclusions: Family dynamics are important in shaping oral health behaviors and outcomes during a pivotal phase of development. Further exploration through longitudinal studies in this field can elucidate causal pathways and potential moderators.