Influence of parents’ oral health knowledge and attitudes on oral health practices of children (5–12 years) in a rural school in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

CONTEXT: Oral health knowledge, beliefs, and attitudes of parents have a direct influence on their child's oral health maintenance, dietary habits, and oral health behaviors. AIM: The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge, and attitude of parents with regard to the oral health practice of their children and its associated factors. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A self-administered structured questionnaire was administered to parents or guardians of learners aged 5-12 years at a low socioeconomic rural primary school in the Ugu district, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. In addition to demographic variables, knowledge of dental health, use of toothbrush, use of toothpaste, dietary practices, and dental visits; practice with respect to dental care; and attitudes toward oral health were requested. CONCLUSION: Parents in the rural community have satisfactory knowledge and a positive attitude toward oral health and children display good practices; however, there are a number of gaps noted in overall parental knowledge.