Relationship between early childhood caries and parents' knowledge and attitudes towards primary teeth

Introduction

This study aims to assess the correlation between parents' knowledge of primary teeth and early childhood caries (ECC).

Methods

A study questionnaire consisting of 27 statements was presented to the parents of 500 children aged 0–6 years to obtain their responses. The dmft (decayed, missed, and filled teeth) index values of the children were also recorded.

Results

The average number of correct answers was 16.41. There was a statistically significant difference in the relationship between parents' knowledge levels and their children's ECC diagnoses. The knowledge levels of parents whose children did not have caries were found to be higher (p < 0.001). There was a statistically significant relationship between the parents' knowledge level and their gender, educational status, occupation, income status, and child's age (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Increased parental knowledge of the importance of primary teeth has a positive relationship with a child's oral health, which can be influenced by sociodemographic characteristics.