Evaluation of parents’ level of knowledge and attitude on early childhood caries

Aim: Tooth decay is recognized as the world's most common bacterial infection. Despite preventive practices to prevent dental caries, early childhood caries continues to be a health problem that concerns the whole world. The incidence of ECC may vary depending on the cultural habits of societies regarding infant feeding. The aim of this study is to evaluate parents' attitudes about early childhood caries, to determine their misbehaviors that cause ECC, and to evaluate their knowledge level about preventive and preventive treatments. Methodology: The study was conducted on 150 participants. The research is a cross-sectional survey study, and it was hand-made to the parents who applied to the clinic. Participation in the research was completely voluntary, and parents who submitted a fully filled questionnaire and volunteered to participate in the study were included, while parents who did not want to participate in the study, did not answer at least one question, were illiterate, and were excluded from the study. Results: 67.3% of the parents participating in the study were female (n=101), and 32.7% were male (n=49). 36.7% of the participants said, “The bacteria that cause caries can be passed from mother/caregiver to child.” He gave the correct answer by answering yes to the proposition. 42.7% of the participants said, "The first sign of dental caries is white spots on the tooth surface." While answering yes to the proposition, 79.3% said, “If early childhood caries is not treated, it can affect the general health and development of the child.” He gave the correct answer by answering yes to the proposition. Conclusion: The risk determinants of ECC should be identified as early as possible, and the most appropriate preventive measures should be implemented rapidly with accurate information and on-site interventions.