KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE ON ORAL HEALTH AMONG MOTHERS OF KINDERGARTEN CHILDREN

Abstract

Oral health is integral part of general health. Improper practice of oral hygiene is a major risk factor for oral diseases. Mothers are considered to be the most accountable in educating the children about proper oral hygiene. This study was aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice of mothers of kindergarten children regarding the oral health of their children. Total of 220 mothers of kindergarten children were selected by using convenience sampling technique from the selected schools at Chennai, Tamil Nādu, India. A structured knowledge, attitude and practices questionnaire was used to collect the data. Analysis and interpretation of the data was done according to the objectives of the study using descriptive and inferential statistics. The present study revealed that 80.4% of mothers of kindergarten children had adequate knowledge, 81% had favorable attitude and 54% had average level of practices regarding the oral health for their children.

Conclusion: There was a significant lack of oral hygiene practices in the kindergarten children and hence it is obligatory to educate the mothers about good oral hygiene related practices to be followed on their children.