An evaluation of the association between oral health status and academic performance among primary school students

This study aimed to examine the association between oral health status and academic performance among primary school-aged children. Poor oral health is a significant public health concern with adverse effects on quality of life, cognitive development, and school attendance, ultimately compromising educational outcomes. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 510 children aged 6–10 years enrolled in a public primary school. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, number of decayed teeth, oral health behaviours, academic achievement, and absenteeism were collected using a structured parent–child questionnaire. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS, employing chi-square tests for categorical variables and Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney U tests for quantitative data. School absenteeism due to toothache or other oral problems was significantly higher in children with ≥ 5 decayed teeth and lower in caries-free children ( p = 0.000). Caries-free children experienced fewer oral health-related difficulties, including concentration, sleep, and nutritional problems ( p = 0.000). Absenteeism was significantly greater among children reporting toothache ( p = 0.017). Poor oral health and untreated caries are associated with increased absenteeism and factors negatively affecting academic performance. Promoting good oral health may contribute to improved educational outcomes in children.