Journal of Research and Advancement in Dentistry
Official publication of Magadh University and Kolhan University, Government of Bihar and Jharkhand, India
Official publication of Magadh University and Kolhan University, Government of Bihar and Jharkhand, India
Year : 2019
Volume : Volume 10
Issue : Issue 3s
Address for correspondence :
Dr. Basil. M. Mathew.
eldhos.jacob1988@gmail.com
Aim: To gather baseline information on knowledge, attitude and practice regarding Early Childhood Caries among Pre-school teachers and Anganwadi workers. To plan and execute a school-based preventive programme. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was designed using a 27 item questionnaire regarding the etiologic and preventive factors of ECC. The study involved 350 Pre-school teachers and Anganwadi workers. Data were subjected to descriptive analysis and frequency distributions were generated. One way analysis of variance and t-test were applied to examine relationships between dependent and independent socio-demographic variables. Results: Despite the majority of teachers being parents (72%) themselves, the study revealed a severe lack of knowledge and inappropriate practices concerning the prevention of Early Childhood Caries. Conclusions: Study indicated an urgent need for an organized awareness programme regarding preventive practices regarding ECC.
Keywords: Knowledge; awareness; practice; early childhood caries; pre-school teachers.
