Year : 2018

Volume : Volume 9

Issue : Issue 3s

Address for correspondence :
Dr. Bharath S. Vardhana.
bharath.dentist@gmail.com

Abstract

Background:  Child abuse is the physical, sexual and emotional maltreatment or neglect of children. Dentists especially Pediatric Dentists are in an ideal position to help detect signs of child abuse and should be able to recognize those signs.  Aim: To assess the preparedness of the Pediatric Dentist in identifying a potential case of child abuse and ability to report the same and to give an insight about the vital signs of an abused child (esp. the girl child in India).  Methodology: The study was conducted in two major cities of India, wherein 50 randomly selected Pediatric Dentists were sent a questionnaire on child abuse and the role they can play to identify.  Results: Out of 55 questionnaires distributed 39 responses were obtained with a response rate of 70.90%. Conclusion: Paediatric dentists can provide valuable information and assistance to physicians about oral and dental aspects of child abuse and neglect. Such efforts will strengthen the ability to prevent and detect child abuse and neglect and enhance care and protection for the children.

Keywords: Child abuse, dental neglect, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, Pediatric dentist.