Pediatricians’ Awareness and Knowledge of Young Children’s Oral Health: A Cross Sectional Study

Background: Most childhood oral diseases can be prevented, and the indispensable role of pediatricians in childcare uniquely positions them to champion standard oral and dental healthcare for children. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and awareness of pediatricians regarding early childhood caries (ECC), oral health, and the treatment needs of their young patients. Subject & Methods: A total of 449 pediatricians were randomly shared in an online self-reported cross-sectional survey which covered personal details, their approach to pediatric dentistry, and their knowledge of oral health. Results: Importantly, 67.9% of surveyed pediatricians recognized the significance of pediatric dentistry, and 88.9% reported conducting regular oral examinations. However, only 22.3% demonstrated familiarity with ECC, and a mere 5.6% acknowledged the cariogenic nature of medicated syrups. All pediatricians who participated in this study did not advise bottle feeding, nearly 91.75% of the pediatricians could relate the importance of breastfeeding and oral health, 60.1% of pediatricians reported that health education should be given to mothers about nursing caries starting early in life. Conclusion: The study highlights a notable deficiency in the surveyed pediatricians' knowledge concerning ECC, oral health, and the dental treatment needs of children. The identified knowledge gaps emphasize the imperative for pediatricians to enhance their understanding by staying current with recent recommendations. Continuous education initiatives, workshops, or other professional development avenues are essential for pediatricians to address these deficiencies effectively, enabling them to contribute significantly to the standardization of oral and dental healthcare for children and ultimately promoting improved overall health outcomes.