The Use of Puppetry‐Based Approaches in Dental and Oral Health Promotion for Children: A Scoping Review of Interventions

BACKGROUND: Puppetry is a well-established three-dimensional art form of media that has been commonly utilized to tell stories and communicate messages. Its application in educational entertainment has become widespread and gained recognition. AIM: This scoping review aimed to explore puppetry-based approaches in promoting dental and oral health for children. METHODS: A comprehensive search of eight databases was conducted using PRISMA-ScR guidelines, focusing on studies published up to August 2024. RESULTS: Ten studies were included in the review. A game-centered educational approach significantly enhanced children's dental knowledge and skills. Human models with mirror feedback were most effective, while giant tooth-brushing models and animal puppets had the lowest imitation rates. Puppet theater improved urban preschoolers' oral health but had no effect on rural children. Hand puppets, pop-up books, and animated videos significantly enhanced toothbrushing skills. Storytelling with hand puppets improved knowledge and attitude more than role-playing. Puppet shows and animated videos yielded notable posttest improvements in oral health knowledge and skills. CONCLUSION: Puppetry-based education appears to be an effective strategy for improving oral health knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors among children, particularly in school and clinical settings.