Socioeconomic Disparities in COVID-19-related Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Among Parents of Pediatric Dental Patients in North-East Delhi: A Cross-sectional Study

Background: COVID-19 has emerged as one of the most disruptive global health crises, profoundly affecting healthcare systems and altering patient behavior.Pediatric dentistry is particularly vulnerable due to close physical contact, aerosol generation, and the requirement of parental presence during treatment.In this context, parents' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) are critical to ensuring safe dental care for children.Aim: To assess COVID-19-related KAP among parents of pediatric dental patients in North-East Delhi and to examine its association with socioeconomic status (SES).Materials and methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted between April and October 2021 using a structured, pre-validated telephonic questionnaire.A total of 1,500 parents of children aged 0-14 years, previously registered at the Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, were interviewed.Data on demographics, SES (Modified Kuppuswamy Scale 2020), and COVID-19-related KAP were collected.Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v25.0.Chi-square tests and univariate logistic regression were applied to explore associations.Results: Most parents (74.1%) correctly identified respiratory droplets as a source of transmission; fewer recognized blood (48.7%) or contaminated instruments (33.6%).While 76.5% viewed dental hospitals as high-risk, 79.5% expressed confidence in dentists' infection control, and 52.7% were willing to seek treatment if their child had a toothache.Socioeconomic status was significantly associated with KAP (p < 0.0001): higher SES parents showed better knowledge but lower trust, while lower SES parents exhibited limited awareness but greater trust.Conclusion: Parental KAP was generally satisfactory but varied significantly with SES.Targeted education is essential to reduce disparities and enhance safe pediatric dental care during public health crises.