Evaluation of parents’ knowledge attitude and practices towards prevention of early childhood caries in Karad, India

Background: Early childhood caries (ECC) is a public health problem due to its impact on children’s health, development and wellbeing. The objective of study was to evaluate parents knowledge, attitude and practices towards the prevention of early childhood caries. A pretested questionnaire with 23 questions was used for collecting information regarding mothers practices regarding feeding and oral hygiene practices. Aim and Objectives: 1. To analyze parents attitude towards prevention of early childhood caries. 2. To evaluate parents Practices towards prevention of early childhood caries. Materials and Methods: A Cross-sectional survey using a Questionnaire consisting of questions addressing knowledge, attitude and practice of early childhood oral heath related factors like oral development, diet, nursing habits, oral hygiene habits, importance of primary teeth. 150 parents of normal healthy children aged below 2-5 years were surveyed. Selection criteria: Inclusion criteria: Parents of normal healthy children aged between 2-5 years who are the primary caretakers of their children. Exclusion criteria: Parents who are not the primary caretakers of the children or who had children with medical problems. Conclusion: The study conducted in Karad reveals that the parents socioeconomic status affects oral hygiene practices. Mothers should be educated about appropriate breast and bottle feeding practices and should also be made aware of prolonged breast feeding, bottle used for sweetened liquids other than milk. Parents should also be educated about oral health issues and risk factors for ECC and its consequences.