The Influence of Oral Health Related Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices on Oral Health Risk‐Related Behaviours of People in Custodial Settings: An Integrative Review

ABSTRACT

Aim

To explore the influence of oral health-related knowledge, attitudes and practices on oral health risk-related behaviours of people in custodial settings.

Design

Integrative review.

Data Sources

Scopus, ProQuest Central, Web of Science, Medline, CINAHL, Academic Search Complete, PsycINFO and Education Research Complete were searched in March 2024 and December 2025.

Methods

Studies reporting on any individuals in custodial settings, at least one oral health-related knowledge, attitude or practice and at least one oral health risk-related behaviour (either smoking, alcohol, illicit substances or sugar consumption). Data related to custodial population's oral health knowledge, attitudes, or practices and oral health risk-related behaviour were extracted, synthesised narratively and reported thematically.

Results

Findings from the 26 studies reveal that people in custodial settings had a general lack of oral health knowledge, and oral health risk-related behaviours were prevalent. The most common risk-related behaviours reported were tobacco use and free sugar consumption. Oral health knowledge, attitudes and practices of this population were influenced by custodial healthcare systems and attitudes of dental professionals.

Conclusion

This review highlights the influence custodial healthcare and dental professionals have on the knowledge, attitudes, practices and risk-related behaviours of people in custodial settings. Oral health targeted interventions and strategies are required to improve oral health-related knowledge and attitudes thereby encouraging oral health practices among people in custodial settings.

Implications for the Profession

This review will inform targeted oral health promotion programs that can improve oral health outcomes and experiences of this population.

Impact

People in custodial settings experience a disproportionate burden of oral diseases. This review underscores the need for proactive interventions and systemic reform to improve correctional healthcare experiences globally.

Reporting Method

Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis, Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) 2018.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

What Does This Paper Contribute to the Wider Global Clinical Community?

Synthesises evidence on influencing factors contributing to poor oral health among people in custodial settings. Highlights impact of healthcare staff and custodial healthcare systems on population health. Highlights the necessity of oral health promotion programs to improve oral health knowledge and to promote oral health protective behaviours.