Knowledge of Flemish paediatricians about children's oral health--results of a survey

OBJECTIVE: To examine the knowledge paediatricians have about oral health in children.

METHODS: A questionnaire on oral health knowledge was mailed to all members of the Flemish Paediatric Association representing 350 out of 676 Flemish paediatricians. Questions concerned timing of the first dental visit, effects of thumb sucking, fluoride supplements, trauma, fluorosis, mutans streptococci and caries, prevention of dental caries, nursing bottle caries and use of sealants.

RESULTS: Two hundred seventy-six questionnaires (79%) were returned. Of the respondents, 71% said they have had some training on dental topics, and most rely on information brochures to be informed on dental subjects. Parents frequently questioned paediatricians about dental eruption. Paediatricians stated that the first dental visit should be scheduled at the age of 3. Eighty-three percent of the paediatricians stated that thumb sucking was harmful to dentition; 7% regularly prescribed fluoride supplements. Knowledge about fluorosis was moderate. Paediatricians judged community water fluoridation and tooth brushing after consuming erosive drinks as effective. The efficacy of dairy products was underrated. Seventy-three percent of the paediatricians were aware of nursing bottle caries, whereas only 39% were familiar with fissure sealing.

CONCLUSION: Initiatives are needed to improve knowledge about oral health of physicians involved in preventive health care of children.