MATERNAL PERCEPTION ON ORAL HEALTH: A STUDY IN A REFERENCE HOSPITAL IN PARAÍBA STATE

Abstract

Objective: This study evaluated the perception of mothers on their oral health care and of their child in the early years of life. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach. Data were collected through questionnaires submitted o mothers who attended the Lauro Wanderley University Hospital Pediatrics Service, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil, from October 2012 to March 2013. Results: Of the 60 mothers of children aged 0-11 years, 43% did not receive guidance on caries and gingival inflammation, and did not have information about the disease etiology and preventive measures. The mothers reported knowing how to manage their own oral care, but 56% of them did not receivegui dance on the oral care of their children; 43% had not taken their children to the dentist yet - and reported doing so only when the child referred pain; 38% of the mothers considered their oral health as regular. The mothers reported brushing the teeth, using mouthwash and flossing as health care measures; 26% of them were unable to formulate what causes tooth decay. Conclusion: The survey participants showed a reasonable perception of their oral health. Investments in programs for oral health prevention and promotion in this referral hospital should be established to improve the knowledge and hygiene practices in oral health care. DESCRIPTORS: Pediatric Dentistry. Oral Hygiene. Oral Health Education.