Oral Health in Early Childhood: A Cross-Sectional Study on Maternal Knowledge, Attitude and Practice

Oral health in early childhood is critical for long-term well-being; however, parental knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) significantly influence children's oral health outcomes. This hospital-based cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the KAP of mothers regarding their children's oral health and to inform strategies for reducing the prevalence of oral diseases. The objectives were to assess maternal knowledge of oral health, attitudes toward dental check-ups and hygiene practices, oral health-related behaviors, and the impact of education and income on KAP, providing insights for targeted interventions.

This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry. This study targeted 300 mothers of children aged 2-6 years. The questionnaire in English, Hindi, and Assamese, validated through a pilot study (Cronbach's alpha=0.81), included three sections: knowledge (K1-K10), attitude (A1-A10), and practice (P1-P10). The scoring criteria followed a modified Likert scale, with correct responses scored as 1 and incorrect or "don't know" responses scored as 0. Statistical analyses included chi-square goodness-of-fit test, one-way analysis of variance, and Pearson's correlation, with a significance threshold of p<0.05.

Most mothers demonstrated strong knowledge, with 290 (97%) recognizing the importance of twice-daily brushing and 250 (83%) being aware of the caries risk in children aged two years. However, only 165 (55%) participants were aware of their correct weaning age. Attitudes were positive, with 275 (92%) valuing balanced diets and 280 (93%) seeking dental health knowledge. However, only 150 (50%) acknowledged bacterial transmission risks. The practices were robust, with 280 (93%) assisting with brushing, 280 (93%) offering plain water after feeding, and 85 (28%) pre-chewing food. Higher education and income significantly improved KAP scores (p<0.05), with education (r=0.65) and oral health education (r=0.78) strongly influencing practices.

Although maternal KAP was strong in the study, socioeconomic disparities and specific knowledge gaps highlighted the need for community-based and culturally tailored oral health programs to enhance practices and reduce childhood oral diseases.