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Volume 8 Issue 5 (May, 2020)

Original Articles

Assessment of knowledge about oral hygiene aids and maintenance in parents of school going children: An original research
Kiran S Shankar, Krishna Veni Jampala, Ruthika Shivajirao Patil, Neetu Singh, Vishal S Kudagi, Harleen Kaur

Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitude, and behavior of school children towards oral health. Objective: To assess the level of knowledge of parents of school going children about oral hygiene aids, such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, mouthwash, floss, and inter dental brushes. To evaluate the level of knowledge of parents of school going children about oral hygiene maintenance, such as frequency of brushing, proper brushing technique, and the role of diet in oral health. To identify the demographic factors, such as age, gender, education level, and socioeconomic status, that influence parents' knowledge about oral hygiene aids and maintenance. Methodology: A descriptive study was conducted among one hundred parents of preschool children visiting pediatrics outpatient department. Paper and pencil based semi structured questionnaire was used for collecting data. Result: Awareness among parents was significantly lower in low socioeconomic groups. Their attitude toward dental treatment differed significantly from high socioeconomic who group preferred going to the pediatric dentist. The results of this study indicate that parents of school going children have a basic understanding of oral hygiene practices, but there are still some areas where knowledge can be improved. This finding is consistent with previous studies that have highlighted the importance of oral health education and promotion among parents to improve oral health outcomes in children. Conclusion: This study aimed to assess the knowledge of parents of school going children about oral hygiene aids and maintenance, and to identify potential gaps and strategies to improve oral health awareness and practices among this population. The findings of this study suggest that while most parents have a basic understanding of oral hygiene practices, there are still areas where knowledge can be improved.

 
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