Cultural factors and family influences on adolescent oral health: qualitative research in a socially disadvantaged population

This qualitative study sought to assess the influence of cultural factors and family on oral health behaviour of 12- to 15-year-old adolescents from the socially disadvantaged population.A qualitative design was developed with focus group discussions (FGDs) among 12- to 15-year-old adolescents. Four focus groups (n = 32 participants) were created from a selected sample to capture oral health beliefs and practices, oral health-seeking behaviour along with other relevant information. Focus group discussions were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and translated. Data were analysed thematically and structural coding was applied.Three key themes that emerged from FGDs were importance of oral health; role of family in oral health behaviour; and beliefs influencing access, prevention and treatment of oral diseases. Cultural background, family values and beliefs were imperative in moulding the behaviour of adolescents towards oral health. The use of traditional oral hygiene aides was a norm in this population.Findings of the study provide greater insights into the authoritative role of family and cultural barriers in the uptake of dental services. The study also highlights the potential value of qualitative research and emphasizes the need to integrate oral health-associated cultural beliefs and attitudes of the adolescents towards a wider evidence base.