Objectives: To evaluate the association between problematic media use (PMU), screen time, dietary habits, and oral health status among children aged 12–15 years.

Methods:A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted among 99 children aged 12–15 years. Participants were selected using convenience sampling from the Department of Pediatric Dentistry. Data on problematic media use (PMU), daily screen time, dietary habits, and oral hygiene practices were collected using a pre-validated questionnaire. Clinical oral examinations were performed to assess dental caries using the Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT) index. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were carried out to evaluate associations between PMU, screen time, dietary habits, oral hygiene practices, and oral health outcomes, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05

Results: Most participants (63.6%) had poor PMU. Children with poor PMU reported significantly greater use of electronic devices. Oral hygiene and DMFT scores were slightly poorer in this group, but no significant association was found between PMU and oral health outcomes. Brushing twice daily was the only variable significantly associated with PMU.

Conclusions: Problematic media use was associated with increased screen exposure but not with oral health status or dietary habits after adjustment for confounding factors. Promoting responsible screen use and healthy lifestyle behaviors remains important.