RSU Faculty of Dentistry launches study on dental caries in children and the impact on families

Researchers from the Rīga Stradiņš University (RSU) Faculty of Dentistry have launched a nationwide study on the economic, social, and emotional burden of childhood caries on families in Latvia. The study analyses the impact of dental caries in children up to the age of 18, based on the experiences of parents and primary caregivers.

The aim of the study is to obtain evidence-based data on the true impact of childhood caries on Latvian families. The study covers not only treatment costs, but also non-medical expenses related to dental care (e.g., transportation costs), indirect costs (lost work or school days), as well as the broader impact on a family’s daily life and emotional wellbeing.

 The importance of the study in improving children’s health 

The long-term goal of the study is to decrease preventable suffering among children and to reduce the burden that dental diseases cause to families. By understanding how families experience and organise dental care, the study results will help: to improve the planning of dental services for children; promote more equitable access to care; and strengthen prevention and early intervention strategies.

RSU Tenured Professor Shaju Jacob Pulikkotil at the RSU Faculty of Dentistry: ‘When we talk about children’s oral health, most often, we focus only on treatment. 

This study takes a broader view at how dental problems affect a family’s daily life, time, work, and emotional wellbeing. 

Parents' experience is essential if we want to create a better and fairer system for children in Latvia.’

Data collection and study results 

Data collection is currently in progress, and the results are not yet available. However, international studies show that childhood caries can cause a significant burden on families - repeated dental visits, time away from work or school, travel expenses, and emotional stress are most frequent consequences. This will be the first study in Latvia to comprehensively assess these aspects from the perspective of parents.

Data collection is planned until 30 June 2026, but the first results are expected in the second half of 2026 after the data analysis is completed. The results of the study will be used to contribute to the development of the national oral health policy and resource planning; strengthen the preventive approach to pediatric dentistry; promote scientific publications and international collaboration; raise public awareness of the broader impact of dental diseases on the lives of children and families.

Call for participation in the study 

Parents or legal guardians whose children (up to 18 years of age) have received dental care for caries in the last 12 months are invited to participate in the study. Completing of the questionnaire takes approximately 15 minutes. The survey will be open until 30 June 2026.

Sign up for the study