RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CHILDREN’S DENTAL HEALTH AND PARENTAL KNOWLEDGE ABOUT ORAL HYGIENE

Abstract

Purpose. The purpose of the recent study conducted in Aktobe City Children’s Dental Clinic, Kazakhstan is to investigate association between level of parental knowledge about oral hygiene and dental caries prevalence of their children. Methods. Mixed method was used. Overall, 164 parents were interviewed by questionnaires to ascertain their knowledge and practice of oral hygiene care, their children were examined for evidence of caries, and the results were compared. Results. 98% children attending the clinic had dental caries with a severity index score (DMFT index) of 5.5. From the parents’ statements it was found that 28% of their children brush their teeth only once a day (in contrast to the international recommendations for twice a day) and these children have a higher prevalence rates of caries. In addition, 12% of children were stated to brush their teeth for 1 minute each time (in contrast to the international recommendations for 2-3 minutes) and these children also showed a trend towards a higher prevalence of caries. 3.7% parents do not believe that oral health is associated with diet and 38.4 % parents do not know about this. Conclusion. These results highlight the need to make further efforts to educate parents on international standards for oral hygiene.