Article PDF :

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Article type :

Original Article

Author :

Anushka A Kale, Sonali K Waghmode, Amit Jadhav, Anushka A Kale, Sonali K Waghmode, Amit Jadhav, Anushka A Kale, Sonali K Waghmode, Amit Jadhav, Anushka A Kale, Sonali K Waghmode, Amit Jadhav

Volume :

39

Issue :

4

Abstract :

Aim: This cross-sectional study aimed to determine parental awareness of dietary habits and oral health concerns of their preschool-aged children. This study examines parent involvement in their pre-schoolers’ oral health and eating habits through focused teaching. Materials and Methods: N=50 parents of preschool-aged children in the Karad region who were enrolled in kindergartens between the ages of three and five participated in a cross-sectional survey. A 20-point questionnaire was self-administered to gather data on demographic and educational factors, feeding practices knowledge, risk behaviours and oral hygiene habits of parents and children, oral health prevention, and the role of parents in preventing dental cavities.Results: The overall findings revealed limited parental awareness and inadequate oral hygiene practices among preschool children in the Karad locality. Among the 50 preschool children included in the study, majority of the parents demonstrated limited awareness regarding the impact of dietary habits, importance of brushing duration, dietary modifications, and routine oral care on their children’s oral health. There was a small but statistically significant negative association between brushing time and the frequency of fast food (r = -0.31, p = 0.03). These findings highlight the critical need for targeted educational interventions to bridge the knowledge gap and promote better oral health practices among caregivers.Conclusion: According to this poll survey, there is a notable lack of parental involvement and awareness regarding the dental health of preschool-aged children. A detailed instructional poster was created based on the gaps found and given to every parent.