Reconnoitering the Dental Knowledge and Attitude of Pediatricians in the Western Uttar Pradesh Region of India

TL;DR

This study explores pediatricians' knowledge and attitudes toward children's dental health in western Uttar Pradesh, India, highlighting the need for better awareness and collaboration.

Contribution

The study provides insights into pediatricians' perceptions of dental health in a specific Indian region, emphasizing the potential for integrating dental education into medical training.

Findings

56.7% of school-going children nationally experience dental caries, with 69.1% in the 6-10 age group.

93.8% of professionals believe dental caries is preventable, and 93.2% acknowledge the benefits of routine dental visits.

90.8% of participants agree that oral health education should be part of medical education curricula.

Abstract

Background

While numerous studies have investigated the prevalence of dental cavities in India, there remains a paucity of research on dental decay across varying age demographics. With early childhood caries (ECC) posing significant threats to young children's holistic health, the role of healthcare practitioners in spreading awareness and preventive measures is crucial. The intention of the present study was to determine pediatricians' opinions on pediatric oral health in the western area of Uttar Pradesh. It also intended to evaluate how these professionals perceived about developing oral health awareness among children, preventing dental caries, and preserving baby oral health.

Methods

About 600 pediatricians (MD) from six regions in western Uttar Pradesh participated in a descriptive cross-section pilot research. To measure dental knowledge as well as attitude, an organized questionnaire was used. Data were then analyzed by applying IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 21 (Released 2012; IBM Corp., Armonk, New York, United States).

Results

The findings indicate that 56.7% of school-going children nationally experience dental caries, with a concerning 69.1% in the 6-10 age group. ECC prevalence is reported at 49.6% nationally. A significant number of professionals believed in the preventability of dental caries 563 (93.8%) and acknowledged the benefits of routine dental visits 559 (93.2%). Older professionals and those working in hospitals/universities demonstrated higher knowledge and a more positive attitude toward pediatric oral health. Interestingly, there was a robust agreement (545 (90.8%)) among participants that oral health education should be integrated into medical education curricula.

Conclusion

In light of the findings, it's clear that pediatric oral health is an area that demands more focus and awareness, especially in the western region of Uttar Pradesh. While a significant portion of medical professionals show commendable knowledge regarding dental health, there is room for enhancement. Especially striking is the pivotal role a pediatrician can play, given their closeness to families and holistic understanding of a child's health. Utilizing this unrealized potential and encouraging these professionals to integrate dental awareness and practices into their regular encounters are urgently needed. Collaboration with pedodontists may help close the knowledge gap and create a setting where all kids can receive complete dental treatment.