Abstract Background: Fluoride toothpaste is a cornerstone in the prevention of dental caries, especially in children. However, parental awareness and perception significantly influence children’s oral health behaviours. In India, where centralised water fluoridation is absent, promoting the use of fluoridated toothpaste gains critical importance. Aim: To assess and compare parental perspectives regarding the use of fluoride toothpaste among schoolchildren studying in private and government schools in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted among 300 parents of 12-year-old children from five randomly selected private and five government schools. A validated 15-item questionnaire assessed parental knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding fluoride toothpaste. Data were analysed using SPSS Version 25, with Chi-square test applied for intergroup comparisons. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Of the 300 participants, 59% were from government schools. About 63.3% of parents reported using fluoridated toothpaste for their children, and 64% had heard of fluoride toothpaste – primarily through mass media (51%). Although 52% recognised its role in preventing caries, only 46% were aware that it could reverse early caries. Quality (38%) and freshness (28.3%) were the main factors influencing toothpaste choice. Notably, a substantial proportion (43.3%) remained unaware of fluoride’s preventive benefits. Conclusion: The study highlights significant knowledge gaps among parents, especially in the government school group. Strengthening oral health education initiatives through both professional counselling and mass media is essential to enhance informed parental choices and promote effective caries prevention strategies in children.
Ancy et al. (Mon,) studied this question.