Jyoti Oberoi1, Rahul Kathariya1, Anup Panda1, Iti Garg1, Sonal Raikar1. 1. Jyoti Oberoi, Anup Panda, Department of Paediatrics and Preventive Dentistry, Padmashree Dr. D.Y. Patil Dental College and Hospital, Nerul, Navi Mumbai 400614, Maharashtra, India.
Abstract
AIM: To investigate grandparent's knowledge and awareness about the oral health of their grandchildren. METHODS: Grandparents accompanying patients aged 4-8 years, who were living with their grandchildren and caring for them for a major part of the day, when both their parents were at work were included in the study. A 20-item questionnaire covering socio-demographic characteristics, dietary and oral hygiene practices was distributed to them. The sample comprised of 200 grandparents (59 males, 141 females). χ(2) analysis and Gamma test of symmetrical measures were applied to assess responses across respondent gender and level of education. RESULTS: Oral health related awareness was found to be low among grandparents. In most questions asked, grandparents with a higher level of education exhibited a better knowledge about children's oral health. Level of awareness was not related to their gender. CONCLUSION: Oral hygiene and dietary habits are established during childhood. There is a great need for dental education of grandparents as they serve as role models for young children.
AIM: To investigate grandparent's knowledge and awareness about the oral health of their grandchildren. METHODS: Grandparents accompanying patients aged 4-8 years, who were living with their grandchildren and caring for them for a major part of the day, when both their parents were at work were included in the study. A 20-item questionnaire covering socio-demographic characteristics, dietary and oral hygiene practices was distributed to them. The sample comprised of 200 grandparents (59 males, 141 females). χ(2) analysis and Gamma test of symmetrical measures were applied to assess responses across respondent gender and level of education. RESULTS: Oral health related awareness was found to be low among grandparents. In most questions asked, grandparents with a higher level of education exhibited a better knowledge about children's oral health. Level of awareness was not related to their gender. CONCLUSION: Oral hygiene and dietary habits are established during childhood. There is a great need for dental education of grandparents as they serve as role models for young children.
Authors: Vivien T Sakai; Thais M Oliveira; Thiago C Silva; Ana Beatriz S Moretti; Dafna Geller-Palti; Vivian A Biella; Maria Aparecida A M Machado Journal: J Appl Oral Sci Date: 2008 Mar-Apr Impact factor: 2.698