ISSN : 2663-2187

An Epidemiological Study Based on Knowledge and Attitude of Parents Toward Oral Health Care and Treatment modalities for their children-In Meerut city

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S Balaji, Neeraj Kant Panwar, AbhayAgarwal, Tanya Agarwal, Asib Ahmad, Nishma Niharika, A. Arivu Stalin
» doi: 10.48047/AFJBS.6.10.2024.7232-7239

Abstract

Background Parents play a crucial role in decisions about their child’s oral health, yet many are unaware of the importance of primary teeth and the role of pediatric dentists. Enhancing parent’s oral health knowledge and attitudes is essential for improving children's oral care. Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the parental knowledge and attitudes regarding children's dental problems and oral health maintenance in Meerut city. Additionally, it aimed to evaluate how parents' educational qualifications influence their attitudes toward maintaining oral health and their understanding of treatment modalities for deciduous teeth. Methodology: A total of 400 questionnaires containing 20 questions along with demographic data written both in English and the native language i.e., Hindi, were prepared for data collection and were personally distributed to parents who are presently living in the Meerut city and were asked to fill this self-administered questionnaire. Thereafter the data Were tabulated and later was sent for statistical analysis / evaluation. Results: The study found that 93% of parents with high educational status had significant knowledge about children's dental problems, oral health maintenance, and treatment modalities for deciduous teeth. In contrast, illiterate parents demonstrated considerably less knowledge and attitude towards these aspects. Conclusion: Parental awareness is relatively low, necessitating the implementation of oral health awareness programs to improve parents' attitudes toward their children's dental treatment.

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