Knowledge and Attitude of Dentists towards Teething and Essential Treatment for Teething Toddlers: A Questionnaire Study

Abstract

Introduction Tooth eruption is the physiological process of movement of teeth from inside the jaw to their position in functional occlusion in the oral cavity. This process starts on average at 6 months of age and can cause local inflammatory symptoms, as well as signs and symptoms in the general health of babies and children.  Methodology The purpose of the cross-sectional questionnaire study was to assess the knowledge and attitude of dentists toward teething and essential treatment for toddlers. Validated questionnaire on google forms was circulated among the participants via social media. Data from Google forms was entered into excel sheets and SPSS 23 software was used for inferential analysis.  Results Of the 301 dentists assessed, the study included 54.5% females and 45.5% males, mostly general practitioners aged 26-30 years. Of the participants, 99% were aware of teething, with 89.7% encountering patients. Common symptoms were chewing objects (80.4%) and swollen gums (77.1%). Teething occurs at 4- 7 months for 7-8 days. 84.7% recognized eruption problems. 73.4% considered hematoma self-limiting. 82.1% knew pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods. Advice included teething rings (80.7%) and distraction (77.1%). 96% recommended regular dental check-ups. 97.7% felt CDE was needed, and 99.3% wanted better parental guidance on teething management.  Conclusion The results of the present study help conclude that included dentists had good level of knowledge and attitude toward teething of toddlers.