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Knowledge and attitude on infant oral health among graduating medical students in Kerala

N Retna Kumari1, S Sheela, P N Sarada

  • 1Deparment of Pedodontics, Govt. Dental College, Trivandrum, India. drretnasarnga@rediffmail.com

Journal of the Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry
|December 22, 2006
PubMed

Insights

This study assessed medical students' knowledge and attitudes toward infant oral health. Findings highlight the need for improved training to address children's oral health disparities.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Pediatric Dentistry
  • Medical Education

Background:

  • Children in Kerala face significant oral health challenges due to limited access to care, workforce shortages, and geographical barriers.
  • Low-income, minority, and special needs children are disproportionately affected by oral health disparities.
  • Integrating oral health promotion into primary care settings is crucial, yet medical providers often lack adequate training.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of graduating medical students regarding infant oral health.
  • To identify potential gaps in medical education concerning pediatric oral health.
  • To inform the development of targeted educational interventions for future healthcare professionals.

Main Methods:

  • Qualitative methods were employed to assess graduating medical students' understanding and perspectives on infant oral health.
  • The study focused on evaluating a specific educational program aimed at improving infant oral health knowledge.

Main Results:

  • Initial findings indicate a need to enhance the current medical curriculum to better prepare students for addressing infant oral health.
  • Qualitative data provided insights into student perceptions and areas where knowledge or attitudes may require improvement.

Conclusions:

  • Improving medical students' knowledge and attitudes towards infant oral health is essential for reducing pediatric oral health disparities.
  • Educational programs targeting primary care providers can play a vital role in promoting child oral health.
  • Further research and curriculum development are recommended to ensure comprehensive oral healthcare for all children.

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