Effect of Mother’s Oral Health awareness on Primary Teeth among Children Attending Pediatric Hospital. A Clinical Study

Abstract

Background:

Oral health plays a critical role in the overall well-being of children, and the primary caregiver's knowledge and attitude significantly influence children's oral hygiene practices. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of mothers' oral health knowledge and attitude on the condition of primary teeth among children aged 1–6 years attending a pediatric hospital.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted at a pediatric hospital over a period of six months, involving 300 children aged 1–6 years. Mothers were interviewed using a structured questionnaire to assess their knowledge and attitudes toward oral health. Children's oral health was evaluated through clinical examinations focusing on the presence of caries, plaque index, and general oral hygiene. The association between mothers' knowledge, attitudes, and children's oral health status was analyzed using chi-square tests and regression models.

Results: Of the 300 mothers surveyed, 75% demonstrated moderate knowledge of oral health, while only 45% exhibited positive attitudes toward preventive oral health practices. Among the children, 40% had at least one dental caries, and 35% showed poor oral hygiene. A significant association was found between maternal knowledge levels and children's oral health outcomes (p < 0.01). Mothers with higher oral health knowledge were 2.5 times more likely to have children with better oral hygiene status. Similarly, a positive maternal attitude was associated with a lower incidence of dental caries in children (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: The study highlights that mothers' oral health knowledge and attitudes significantly impact the oral health status of their children. Educational interventions aimed at improving maternal oral health knowledge and attitudes could play a key role in reducing the incidence of dental caries and promoting better oral hygiene in young children.