Knowledge and Awareness of Healthcare Professionals about Infant Oral Health

Abstract

Introduction: The strategy of utilizing primary medical care to promote oral health is particularly necessary and especially through infant oral health measures (IOH). Pediatricians and family physicians were knowledgeable about some aspects of ECC and infant oral health but were uncertainly identifying dental caries and the early signs of ECC. The majority of physicians reported that they play an important role and are involved in promoting the oral health of children in their practices. Aim: This cross-sectional study was designed to assess baseline knowledge of infant oral health IOH among healthcare professionals. Design: An online self-reported cross-sectional survey was designed to assess awareness about IOH. A total number of 449 healthcare professionals (dentists, physicians, nurses and dental assistances), working in facilities dealing with infant health responded to the survey in various countries. The survey was consisting of 12 questions regarding IOH. A score of 70% or more was considered as a “pass” score based. Results: Descriptive and analytic statistics were performed for all groups and subgroups based on their responses which reflect their awareness of IOH. Around 53% of health professionals (n= 242) were able to achieve pass scores, while 47% of health professionals (n=207) did not achieve it. Regarding demographic and occupational characteristics there was a significant difference in pass rate about age (p< 0.001) being lower in the age group below 30 years. We also found a significant difference in pass rate in relation to gender and type of job (p< 0.05). However, there was no significant difference in relation to the duration of the experience (p> 0.05). Conclusion: There is a need for continuous education and training programs on updated oral health measures for all healthcare providers. This study calls for further research to evaluate the role of various factors involved in IOH care and to effectively educate all healthcare providers.