Parental norms and attitudes in relation to children’s sugar consumption and oral health-related quality of life in a semi-urban population of Faridabad district: A questionnaire-based survey

Objectives: This study aimed to assess the influence of parental norms and attitudes on children’s sugar consumption and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in a semi-urban population of Faridabad district. It also sought to evaluate the association between parental regulation, children’s oral hygiene habits, and dental health outcomes. Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was conducted among 100 children aged 6–12 years attending the Department of Paediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Manav Rachna Dental College, Faridabad. Children with at least one natural tooth and parents willing to participate were included, while children with systemic conditions affecting oral health and parents not primarily responsible for dietary decisions were excluded. Two structured questionnaires were administered: one for parents assessing norms, attitudes, and oral health practices, and another for children evaluating sugar consumption patterns, oral hygiene habits, and OHRQoL indicators. Data were analyzed using SPSS software with appropriate statistical tests to examine associations between parental factors and children’s oral health outcomes. Results: Children whose parents actively restricted sugar intake and closely monitored dietary habits demonstrated lower frequency of sugary food consumption and better oral hygiene practices. These children reported fewer episodes of tooth pain, reduced school absenteeism due to dental problems, and lower levels of social embarrassment related to oral health. In contrast, permissive parental norms were associated with increased sugar consumption and poorer OHRQoL indicators among children. Conclusions: Parental norms and attitudes play a significant role in shaping children’s dietary behaviors and oral health-related quality of life. The findings highlight the importance of parental education programs and family-centered preventive strategies focusing on sugar regulation and oral hygiene promotion to improve pediatric oral health outcomes.