The Application of Gamification in Children's Oral Health Management: Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Health
• Digital Health Interventions
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Dental caries is a major global health issue affecting children's well-being.
• Gamification offers an innovative approach to enhance pediatric oral health engagement and behavior.
• A comprehensive review of gamification in pediatric oral health, covering education, behavior change, engagement, and digital platforms, was lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically evaluate the effectiveness of gamification in pediatric oral health management.
• To analyze game design elements, intervention platforms, and outcomes related to oral hygiene knowledge, behavior, and engagement.
• To synthesize findings from diverse study designs on gamified oral health interventions for children.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review following PRISMA guidelines, searching multiple databases from 2014-2025.
• Inclusion of RCTs, quasi-experimental, cohort, systematic reviews, and qualitative studies with measurable outcomes.
• Narrative synthesis of 41 studies, focusing on themes, intervention effectiveness, and methodological quality.

Main Results:

• Digital interventions (apps, serious games, AR) were most common (59%), utilizing rewards and feedback.
• 38% of digital studies reported improved oral health knowledge and behaviors; non-experimental studies showed enhanced parental engagement and better hygiene habits.
• Gamified interventions increased participation and adherence, but 95% of studies had moderate risk of bias.

Conclusions:

• Gamification, especially digital forms like mobile apps and AR, shows strong potential for improving pediatric oral health management.
• Interventions can significantly enhance engagement, oral hygiene behaviors, and promote sustained health behavior change in children.
• Future research should focus on long-term effects, cultural adaptation, and integration with public health programs.