Structural equation modelling for associated factors with dental caries among 3-5-year-old children: a cross-sectional study

The aim of the current study was to explore the factors influencing dental caries among 3-5-year-old children in Sichuan Province and the interrelationship between these factors using structural equation modelling (SEM). A cross-sectional study was conducted among 2746 3-5-year-old children in Sichuan Province. Examination of caries was conducted on all children and a questionnaire was answered by the children's caregiver. SEM alternative models were constructed to interpret the intricate relationships between socio-economic status (SES), caregiver's oral health knowledge, attitudes, children's oral health behaviours and children's dental caries. The results showed that dental caries were significantly associated with dietary behaviours (β = 0.11, SE = 0.03, P = 0.001, BC 95% CI =0.05/0.18) and SES (β = - 0.17, SE = 0.03, P