Assessing the Knowledge Levels of Pediatricians and Family Physicians Regarding the Eruption Period of Primary Teeth and Oral Health of Children: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Purpose: The research aimed to assess the knowledge level of pediatricians and family physicians regarding the eruption period of primary teeth and pediatric oral-dental health. Methods: Pediatricians, research assistants in pediatrics, and family physicians working in Ankara were reached via e-mail and mobile applications. The demographic characteristics of the participants and their level of knowledge on child oral-dental health and primary teeth eruption period were assessed. The questions were formed following the current guidelines (AAPD). The collected data was analyzed by SPSS 24, and p<0.05 was accepted for statistical significance. Results: 251 physicians, 67.3% (n=169) of whom were female, participated in the study. The ratio of assistant physicians among the participants is approximately 41%. Nearly 40% of the participants were in the first three years of their profession. A statistically significant relationship was detected between the answers to the questions on the eruption cyst, amber necklace use and the necessity of primary teeth treatments, and the titles of the professionals (p<0.05). The rates of correct answers were found to be less in ratio regarding early childhood caries, the differences of oral mucosa in eruption and newborn period, and the relation between fever and teething period. Conclusion: In conclusion, the knowledge level of pediatric and family physicians about the eruption period of primary teeth and oral-dental health was found to be insufficient. Protecting children's oral and dental health is necessary, especially by informing family physicians and pediatricians.