Background: Mother’s knowledge and awareness regarding childhood caries are among the topmost determinants in predicting the child’s oral health. Mothers’ educational and professional levels have been positively associated with the good oral health of their children.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out utilizing a closed-ended questionnaire. The questionnaire was constructed online using Google forms. Questions included points related to demographics, educational level, knowledge about early childhood caries (EEC), and perception of mothers about prevention and detection of caries.
Results: Findings were retrieved using frequencies and Chi-square test using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. The study found the distribution of study participants based on their age group: 25% belonged to 18-30 years, 47% to 31-45 years, 25% from 46 to 60 years, and only 3% from 60 + years.
Conclusion: Overall knowledge of Saudi mothers was found to be average. There is a need to educate mothers regarding the prevention and treatment of EEC.
Key words: Saudi mothers, early childhood caries, knowledge, perception
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