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Parental Perceptions of Analgesic Ice Cream as a Post-Extraction Therapeutic Modality in Children: A Mixed-Methods
Harshini Ravichandran1,2, Deepa Gurunathan3, Sharath Asokan4
1Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, KSR Institute of Dental Science and Research, KSR Educational Institutions, Tiruchengode, Tamil Nadu, India.
Background:
Poor compliance with conventional oral analgesics can compromise post-extraction pain management in children. Understanding parental perceptions of innovative therapeutic approaches may support the development of acceptable postoperative pain management strategies.
Aim:
To assess parental perceptions regarding the potential use of analgesic ice cream as a postdental extraction therapeutic modality for children using a mixed-method approach.
Design:
An explanatory sequential mixed-method study was conducted among 421 parents using a validated questionnaire (Cronbach's α = 0.82), followed by semi-structured interviews with 26 parents. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and binary logistic regression, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis.
Results:
Most parents showed favorable perceptions toward analgesic ice cream, with 72.2% expressing willingness to use it following dental extraction. Perceived benefits included improved compliance, ease of administration, and enhanced postoperative comfort. Key concerns involved safety, dosage accuracy, and overconsumption. Qualitative findings supported these perceptions while highlighting the importance of professional recommendation, clear instructions, and scientific validation.
Conclusion:
Parents generally perceived analgesic ice cream as a potentially acceptable adjunct to postoperative pain management in children. However, concerns regarding safety, dosage regulation, and professional guidance warrant consideration in future formulation development and clinical evaluation.
