Introduction

Dental caries, a chronic disease affecting children, is a significant public health concern due to its impact on oral health and overall well-being. The prevalence of dental caries is influenced by social, behavioral, and environmental factors. Understanding this issue is crucial for effective interventions and improved oral health outcomes in children.

Tooth decay affects many people, especially children. Globally, over 530 million children are estimated to have dental caries in their primary teeth. Low-income communities and developing countries, like Brazil, have even higher prevalence rates. Addressing this issue is vital to protect children's oral health (World Health Organization, 2019).

Dental caries has negative consequences beyond physical discomfort. It can hinder children's daily activities, quality of life, and long-term development. Public promotion programs are necessary to improve oral health and overall well-being in children [1].

Various factors contribute to dental caries, including low socioeconomic status, limited access to oral healthcare, poor oral hygiene practices, and sugary diets. Understanding these factors is crucial for designing targeted interventions that address the causes and promote preventive oral health practices [2].

Public promotion programs have been studied for their effectiveness in improving oral health outcomes in children. These programs raise awareness, educate the community, and promote preventive practices, focusing on reducing dental caries. Community-wide initiatives like oral health education campaigns, dental screenings, fluoride supplementation, and sealant programs empower children and their families to maintain good oral hygiene practices [3].

This paper explores the effectiveness of public promotion programs in improving oral health outcomes for children, specifically reducing dental caries. It examines the impact of social, behavioral, and environmental factors and emphasizes the importance of targeted interventions. Understanding this issue and its implications will lead to evidence-based strategies for optimal oral health and enhanced well-being in children.