Knowledge, attitude and practices among pediatricians on early childhood caries and infant oral health care in Mangaluru

Dr.Sham.S.Bhat; Dr.Sundeep Hegde K; Dr.Vidya Bhat.S; Dr.Chinchu Mathew

Volume : VI, Issue : VI, June - 2016

Knowledge, attitude and practices among pediatricians on early childhood caries and infant oral health care in Mangaluru

Dr. Sham. S. Bhat, Dr. Sundeep Hegde K, Dr. Vidya Bhat. S, Dr. Chinchu Mathew

Abstract :

 Background: The medical office is considered an opportune site to reach large numbers of children. Pediatricians can asses risk for dental problems and counsel parents and children about the prevention of these problems. A key element of comprehensive care for children thus involves the coordination of services between medical and dental providers so that the appropriate health care professionals can provide appropriate services at the appropriate age. Aim: To assess the Knowledge, attitude and practices among Pediatricians on Early childhood caries and Infant oral health care in Mangalore. Methodology: Printed questionnaire was distributed to Pediatricians in Mangalore regarding, their knowledge level and attitude about Early childhood caries and their approach towards pediatric dentistry. Results: The findings suggest that pediatricians are knowledgeable about ECC and infant oral health. The majority of paediatricians considered their role in children’s oral health as important and reported certain aspects of oral health in child visits. However, a reported lack of dental knowledge and training appeared to pose barriers, limiting paediatricians from playing a more active role.