Assessing Parental Awareness Regarding the First Dental Visit of Children: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Early dental visits play a crucial role in preventing oral diseases and establishing positive dental attitudes in children. Despite professional recommendations advocating the first dental visit by the age of one year, parental awareness regarding this guideline remains limited. Aim: To assess parental awareness, beliefs, and attitudes regarding the first dental visit of children. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted among 151 parents. Data regarding child demographics, parental education, awareness of the recommended age for the first dental visit, beliefs about primary teeth, and attitudes toward dental visits were collected. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0. Descriptive statistics were expressed as frequencies and percentages. Chi-square test was used to assess associations between variables, with the level of significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Most parents believed that early dental visits are beneficial; however, awareness regarding the recommendation of the first dental visit by one year of age was inadequate. A statistically significant association was observed between parental education level and awareness of the appropriate timing for the first dental visit (p < 0.05). Fear of pain and dental instruments were the most common concerns related to dental treatment. Conclusion: Although parents demonstrated a positive attitude toward child oral health, a significant                    gap exists in guideline-based awareness regarding the first dental visit. Targeted oral health education strategies and interdisciplinary reinforcement are essential to improve timely utilization of preventive dental services.