AWARENESS OF DENTAL CARIES PREVENTION IN INFANTS AND YOUNG CHILDREN AMONG DENTAL STUDENTS AND DENTAL INTERNS
Authors: Melnyk V.S. , Dyachuk E.Y. , Grinenko E.M. , Gorzov V.V. , Melnyk S.V. 
Published: May 2023

Introduction. Promoting a commitment to dental caries prevention in young children plays a vital role in establishing healthy lifestyle habits that ward off dental diseases. The initial dental visit is as a cornerstone for fostering parental motivation in preventing dental issues and providing optimal conditions for the development of healthy eating habits, oral care practices, and the use of fluoride toothpaste. The foundation of dental knowledge, habits, and skills is laid within the family as children emulate adult behavior. Pediatric dentists, pediatricians, and primary healthcare personnel should serve as the primary and reliable sources of knowledge. As the determinants of dental caries are influenced by family-related risk factors, such as oral hygiene practices, the use of fluoride toothpaste, and sugar and carbohydrate consumption from an early age, parents bear the responsibility for creating an environment conducive to effective prevention. Dental professionals act as key information sources for oral health within the population and primary healthcare workers.

Objective. This study aims to analyze the awareness of senior dental students and interns regarding the prevention of dental caries in infants and young children.

Materials and Methods. A questionnaire was designed to assess awareness of dental caries prevention in infants and young children. The questionnaire, consisting of 13 questions with multiple answer options, was distributed to senior dental students and dental interns using an online Google form. It focused on evaluating knowledge of dental disease prevention, including the relationship between dental caries and behavioral risk factors such as nutrition, recommendations for oral care in children, and the use of fluoride-containing toothpaste.

Results. Analysis of the questionnaire responses revealed that all participants were aware of the cariogenic nature of sugar, with 82.5% recognizing the caries-causing potential of fruit juices. However, knowledge regarding the cariogenicity of other products, such as fruits (8.8%) and dietary carbohydrates (25.4%), was limited. While the benefits of breastfeeding for a growing child are well-known, only 25.4% of senior dental students and interns recognized that prolonged, unregulated breastfeeding beyond one year contributes to early childhood caries. Moreover, 38.6% believed that bottle-feeding with milk formula can lead to tooth decay. Recommendations for feeding children from a spoon and cup after the eruption of the first milk tooth were not provided by any respondents. Only two individuals (1.8%) acknowledged that co-sleeping with the mother can pose a risk factor for childhood caries. Regarding oral hygiene recommendations for parents, only 12.3% of senior dental students and medical interns suggested the use of toothpaste and a brush, while guidance on selecting appropriate toothpaste for infants and young children was disregarded by all respondents. Additionally, the quantity of toothpaste to be applied and the age at which children should start brushing their teeth were not considered, with 53.5% of respondents believing that brushing with a toothbrush alone is sufficient.

Conclusion. The survey exposed insufficient knowledge among senior dental students and medical interns regarding risk factors and evidence-based methods for preventing dental caries in infants and young children.