Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 29, 2026

Oral Biofilm Sampling for Microbiome Analysis in Healthy Children
Published on: December 31, 2017
Parental perspectives of early childhood caries
Inyang A Isong1, Donna Luff, James M Perrin
1MassGeneral Hospital for Children, Boston, MA, USA. iisong@partners.org
Abstract:
BACKGROUND. Parental perspectives of children with early childhood caries may help inform the development and improvement of caries prevention strategies. OBJECTIVES. This study aimed to explore parents' experiences, perceptions, and expectations regarding prevention and management of early childhood caries. Methods. The authors conducted semistructured interviews with 25 parents of children aged 2 to 5 years, with a known history of caries. All interviews were transcribed and coded, and iterative analyses were conducted to identify key emergent themes within the data. RESULTS. Parents had limited knowledge of behaviors contributing to early childhood caries and when to first seek regular dental care. Parents expected pediatricians to provide education on how to prevent childhood caries, conduct preliminary oral health assessments, and help establish early linkages between medical and dental care. CONCLUSION. The findings make a strong case for pediatricians to take responsibility for engaging and educating parents on fostering optimal oral health and helping to access early childhood dental care.
Related Concept Videos
Development of the Oral Microbiota
Relationship with Parents: Attachment
Parenting Styles
Authoritarian Parenting
This style is strict and controlling, with little room for open dialogue. Authoritarian parents demand obedience and often enforce rules with minimal warmth. Children raised this way may lack social skills and initiative, usually comparing themselves to others unfavorably.
Authoritative Parenting
This...
Influence of Parents and Peers on Identity
Parental Influence on Identity Development
Parents serve as primary guides and managers in an adolescent's life, offering support instrumental in decision-making and personal growth. This guiding role...
The Nativist Approach
Sources of Self-Esteem I: Family Experience
