Parents’ knowledge and attitudes towards malocclusion and early identification of dentofacial deformities linked to oral habits in children

Abstract

Introduction: Early intervention avoids or minimizes full-blown malocclusion later in childhood and removes elements that interfere with dental arch development. Parents have a significant role in their children's oral health and related habits. This study aimed to assess parental awareness of children's oral health and habits and its impact on the malocclusion. Materials and Methods: A convenience sampling technique was used to recruit parents of children aged 4-9 years old in Jeddah. A self-administered questionnaire was utilized to collect parents' awareness and knowledge about oral health, oral habits and early identification of malocclusion. Results: A total of 485 eligible parents participated in the study. About 79% of parents agreed that it was essential to keep baby teeth in place to prevent malocclusion. It was reported by 24.7% and 17.7% of the parents that genetics and oral habits are the reasons for a malocclusion. The overall knowledge level was found to be moderate among the parents, where 36.7%) had demonstrated 'good' knowledge related to oral habits and oral health and their relationship with malocclusion. Good knowledge levels were significantly higher among parents who had higher educational levels (p<0.001). Conclusion: Unlike previous studies done in Saudi Arabia, this study showed comparatively good awareness of oral habits and oral health and its impact on malocclusion among parents. This research highlights the role of pedodontists as key players in imparting knowledge to parents in preventing malocclusion among children.