A Cross-sectional Study on Sense of Coherence and Its Relationship with Caries Experience and Socioeconomic Status in 11–16-year-old Schoolchildren

AIM: To know the association of sense of coherence (SOC), caries experience, and socioeconomic status (SES) in 11–16-year-old schoolchildren. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study included a total of 595 schoolchildren aged 11–16 years, and informed consent was obtained. Demographic and socioeconomic data were collected through pro forma filled by the parents. Sense of coherence of children was recorded with SOC-13 item questionnaire given in both English and local language (Telugu). Caries experience was recorded with DMFT index by carrying out the intra-oral examination of children. RESULTS: In a total of 595 schoolchildren, 35% children have weak SOC, 34.9% have moderate SOC, and 29.9% have strong SOC. Caries experience was inversely associated with SOC (p value = 0.006) on analysis by ANOVA. On multivariate regression analysis, it was observed that for every one-unit increase in SOC, caries experience decreased by 0.11 unit. However, there was statistically no significant (p value = 0.09) relation between childhood SES and SOC. Age (p value = 0.08) and gender (p value = 0.19) are not associated with SOC. CONCLUSION: Sense of coherence influences the caries experience irrespective of socioeconomic status, age, and gender of the child. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Children having stronger SOC have increased likelihood to seek out preventive dental services, which helps in maintaining good oral health. SOC is structured mainly by the experiences during the early years of life. Therefore, SOC can be strengthened by interventions in the early life through school dental health programs. HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Mrudhula KJN, Vinay C, Uloopi KS, et al. A Cross-sectional Study on Sense of Coherence and Its Relationship with Caries Experience and Socioeconomic Status in 11–16-year-old Schoolchildren. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2020;13(5):493–496.