Oral health comprehension in school children: A school-based exploratory study for policy and prevention in India

Objectives: To assess and compare oral health comprehension levels among public and private school students from Grades 6 to 10. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 150 students using grade-specific oral health passages. Students completed comprehension tasks including titling, question framing, and summarization. Scores were analyzed using independent t-tests and one-way ANOVA. Results: Mean comprehension scores improved with grade level but remained below optimal levels. Private school students scored significantly higher than public school students (p < 0.001). Commonly misunderstood oral health terms included plaque, fluoride, and gum bleeding. Conclusions: Overall oral health comprehension was low among school children. Simplified, culturally appropriate educational content is required to improve oral health literacy and preventive outcomes.