Pediatricians’ View on Pediatric Dental Needs: Bridging the Gap

Abstract

Background: Although repeated efforts are being made from time to time to enhance the knowledge of pediatricians regarding the oral health of children, yet there is a huge gap to bridge. This study is yet another effort to find the loopholes where improvements can be made, as establishing a good rapport and communication between both the fraternities is the need of the hour to decrease the load of a major public health problem, i.e., dental caries in children. Aim: This study was aimed to appraise pediatricians' knowledge and awareness toward oral health and treatment needs. Materials and methods: Pediatricians in the Amritsar district were requested to fill up the questionnaire concerning their knowledge level and approach toward pediatric dentistry. Results: Although 80% of pediatricians were aware about dental caries, only 60% of the pediatricians surveyed had ample knowledge of the importance of various aspects of pediatric dentistry. Conclusion: Every pediatrician should be associated with a pediatric dentist to minimize the load of oral diseases and brace the positive dental attitude in developing years of life.