Pediatricians view about oral health care and treatment needs of children in Bhopal city: Bridging the gap between pediatricians and pedodontist

Abstract

Objective: Repeated efforts in the form of educational programs and surveys have been made time and again to enhance the knowledge, attitude and behavior of pediatricians regarding pediatric dentistry. However, it is unfortunate to conceive that there is still a huge need to bridge the gap. This study is yet another effort to detect the loopholes so that henceforth in future a better rapport and a better consultation program can be established between pediatricians and pedodontists. Need of the hour is to improve the communication between the two fraternities. Aim and Objectives: The aim of the study of the following study is to evaluate the knowledge, attitude and behavior of pediatricians regarding pediatric dentistry in Bhopal city (Madhya Pradesh). Material and Methods: Pediatricians in Bhopal were requested to fill up an open ended questionnaire, which comprised of questions relating to the basic knowledge regarding the scope of pediatric dentistry and how according to them was this specialty beneficial to the young patients. Result: The present study shows that the pediatricians who were surveyed had poor knowledge regarding dental and oral health and treatment needs in children. Most of pediatricians were not aware of many aspects of child oral health care and areas of concerns were identified. Conclusion: Pediatricians have a fair knowledge about oral health and different treatment modalities such as pit and fissures sealants, restoration, root canal treatment, crowns, space maintainers and topical fluorides in children.

Keywords

• oral health
• pediatricians
• survey