Midwives' knowledge and preventive practices regarding early childhood caries: a quantitative study in France.

Abstract

Purpose: Early childhood caries is a major public health issue worldwide. Midwives, as primary healthcare providers for young children, play an essential role in promoting oral health practices. This study aimed to assess the knowledge of midwives in France regarding early childhood caries, their prevention, and dietary risk factors for dental caries in young children.

Methods: A national online survey via self-administrated questionnaire was conducted among midwives in France, with a focus on their understanding of oral health recommendations, including the timing of the first dental examination, fluoride use, and dietary habits.

Results: The results revealed that while midwives demonstrated knowledge of basic oral hygiene practices, there were gaps in their understanding of the timing of the first oral examination and the use of fluoride toothpaste. In addition, many midwives did not recognise breastfeeding, especially night-time breastfeeding, as a cariogenic factor. Moreover, a statistically significant difference between generations was identified in the approach to oral health prevention during prenatal and postnatal consultations.

Conclusion: This study highlights the need for improved oral health training for midwives and a greater integration of oral health education into their professional practice to enhance early prevention of early childhood caries.