Knowledge, Attitude and Practices of Mothers Regarding Oral Hygiene and Dental Caries Among Children: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Oral hygiene is an important factor in determining good health especially among children. The role of mothers is inevitable in helping their children learn basics of maintaining good oral hygiene. However, the literature is unclear about the exact role and fulfillment of the learning outcomes about oral health given by the mother. Objective: To review knowledge, attitude and practices of mothers regarding oral hygiene and dental caries among children. Methods: Original observational studies of any sort, both descriptive and analytical and any design were included. PRISMA guidelines were followed to search literature through free web search sources such as google scholar, PubMed, Web of Science and others and BOOLEAN search strategy was opted. Results: The total number of subjects included in 9 selected studies were 9,481. All studies reported that mother’s KAP as well as involvement in children’s oral hygiene and care is an important determinant to prevent risk of dental caries as well as to improve overall oral health. Conclusion: Mothers have a significant impact on oral health of children. Mother’s good knowledge, attitude and practices may help develop good oral hygiene of the children and may reduce risk of dental caries.

Mothers' attitude and practices toward oral health of children under 5 years old at Al-Nasiriya city

“…The better level of KAP about oral hygiene among mothers is directly related to better oral health and less chances of dental caries among their children (Al-Jaber et al, 2021). A systemic review also reported that children of mothers with poor KAP had higher risk of dental caries (Iqbal et al, 2022).…”

Exploring Oral Health Knowledge and Practices among Early Childhood Caregivers A Cross-Sectional Survey

“…Higher oral health knowledge among mothers directly reduces the chances of dental diseases such as dental caries. However, this is only possible if mothers have enough knowledge about healthy oral habits and practices (Iqbal et al, 2022). Factors such as oral health literacy, age, education level of parents, socioeconomic level, practices, and parents' knowledge are linked with their optimal oral health and their children's oral health.…”

“…A study conducted by Iqbal et al, (2022) regarding mothers' Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) found that only 24.9% had adequate knowledge, and 29% had poor attitudes toward their children's oral health. Therefore, a mother's KAP is the primary determinant of preventing the risk of oral disease as well as for optimal oral health of a child.…”

“…Early childhood is a crucial phase of developing a child's physical and mental well-being, laying the foundation for their future growth. Lack of good oral practice may cause dental issues among children during their developmental phase (Iqbal et al, 2022). Untreated and unattended dental diseases can have a negative and lasting impact on a child's oral and general health.…”