Evaluation of Children’s Use of Oral Health Products, Familiarity of Parents With These Products, and Their Availability

Abstract

Background: In addition to mechanical methods, mouthwash, toothpaste, and fluoride gels are high-performance methods that can play an important role in reducing plaque and preventing caries in children. The purpose of this study was to determine the availability and use of oral health products related to children, and the familiarity of parents with methods to prevent decay. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, a checklist containing questions about the familiarity of parents with and the use of products related to children’s oral health was prepared and then completed by 325 parents of children aged 6 to 9 years who referred to the pediatric department dental clinics of the School of Dentistry. A dental student obtained information about the availability of products from pharmacies using a checklist. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics and linear regression tests using SPSS 26 software. Results: This study showed that parents were relatively familiar with some health products such as dental floss and children’s toothpaste and mouthwash, but the information of parents was not enough on products such as casein phosphate, xylitol, and fluoride gel. About 40% of the pharmacies did not have finger toothbrushes or children’s toothbrush brands. One third of pharmacies did not have children’s mouthwash. No pharmacy had fluoride gel. Conclusion: This study showed that parents’ familiarity with children’s oral health products was low. Action should be taken to increase the awareness of parents. The reason for the lack of products in pharmacies should also be investigated and the existing obstacles to access them should be alleviated.