Economic evaluation of dental prevention programmes in primary schools: a scoping review

Introduction Evidence for economic evaluations (EEs) is essential for informed decision-making in healthcare. This scoping review of economic studies based on school dental screening and prevention programmes summarises the key facts in a narrative format and analyses knowledge gaps.Aim This scoping review mapped the existing literature on EEs in school dental screening and prevention and assessed the completeness of reporting using the CHEERS 2022 checklist.Methods A comprehensive literature search was conducted across three databases (Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus) for EEs with no date restriction. EEs of school-based dental prevention programmes were included and grouped into three categories based on the intervention focus: prevention only, combined prevention and treatment interventions, and screening interventions. Quality assessment was conducted using the CHEERS checklist.Results A total of 11 EEs met inclusion criteria. While most studies reported short-term outcomes, fewer than half adequately estimated future cost saving.Discussion The evidence base for economic evaluations in school-based caries prevention is fragmented, with many studies focusing on isolated components rather than broader, integrated models of care.Conclusion Caries prevention is a long-term investment, and evaluations should account for future reduced treatment needs. More comprehensive and context-sensitive evaluations are needed to guide resource allocation and improve long-term oral health outcomes for children.