Parental attitudes toward treatment options for primary teeth: a scenario-based study of caries, ınfection, and...

To evaluate parental attitudes toward treatment options for primary teeth using scenario-based assessments and to examine the associations between demographic factors and parental attitudes.

A cross-sectional study was conducted with 240 parents of children aged 4-8 years. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire including three clinical scenarios (deep caries, infection requiring extraction, and follow-up). Data were analyzed using chi-square tests and Multiple Correspondence Analysis (p < 0.05).

Most parents preferred conservative treatment (85.9%) and considered it reasonable (78.8%). The majority expected treated teeth to remain functional for at least three years (75.4%), with treatment success as the primary concern. Although 62.5% accepted extraction when necessary, 65.8% would seek a second opinion. High acceptance of space maintainers was observed (80.8%). Education level was significantly associated with treatment preferences (p < 0.05), whereas parental age showed no significant association.

Parents demonstrated a strong preference for tooth preservation and conservative treatment approaches. However, treatment decisions varied according to the clinical scenario presented and were associated with factors such as parental educational level and previous dental experience. These findings highlight the importance of effective parent-clinician communication and parental education when discussing treatment options for primary teeth.