A questionnaire-based study of Paediatric Dentists’ knowledge of teething signs, symptoms and management

Abstract

Introduction Signs and symptoms attributed to erupting primary teeth are commonly known as “teething”. Its existence is controversial with concern that overusing this term might mask other illnesses and some treatments may be unnecessary or harmful. Parents/carers can access over-the-counter remedies and may seek professional advice. This survey-based investigation explored gaps in knowledge, training, perceptions and experiences of UK Paediatric Dentists (PDs) regarding teething in young children. Method Cross-sectional study with a convenience sample of PDs with different training levels, accessed through the British Society for Paediatric Dentistry membership lists. A 10-item questionnaire explored participants’ knowledge of teething-related issues and management. Responses are presented using descriptive statistics. Results Of 80 responding PDs (response rate 27%), 62–74% suggested drooling, irritability, oral fixation and flushed cheeks were attributed to primary tooth eruption. Fifty-eight (72%) participants were unaware of guidelines, yet 53 (66%) felt guidance was needed. Conclusion Signs and symptoms of teething might mask underlying conditions so it should be a diagnosis of exclusion. PDs attributed similar signs and symptoms to teething, as have been reported in the literature, although some commented that they did not think teething was a condition. There was a lack of awareness over guidelines.

Datasets of skills-rating questionnaires for advanced service design through expert knowledge elicitation

“…Despite the rigorousness of this research, the authors acknowledge that there are limitations associated with pre-coded (closed) skills-rating questionnaires. These closed questionnaires in practice do not allow for other possible choices (design team members and design methods); this limitation of closed-ended questionnaires has also been acknowledged by other questionnaire-based research studies 16,37,38 . For instance, the expert or www.nature.com/scientificdata www.nature.com/scientificdata/ design practitioner may consider the role of the sales team in addition to the defined design team members (see Fig.…”