P. Bakardjiev, M. Peneva

Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Medical University – Sofia

Oral hygiene and nutrition are two main components of the programs for oral health promotion. The creation of such a program requires a basic assessment of existing knowledge in the study group. Knowledge of children in the age 4-6 are formed mainly of parental knowledge and forms the basis for the formation of children and oral hygiene and eating habits.

Aim: The aim of this study is to compare the knowledge of parents and children about oral hygiene and feeding activity.

Materials and methods: They were examined 150 children, divided into three age groups-4, 5 and 6 years from kindergartens in the Sofia city and their parents (150). They were created two types of questionnaires with similar issues for children and parents. Questions are directed to establish knowledge and existing oral hygiene and dietary habits and preferences, and regular visits to the dental office. Comparison was made between parental and children’s knowledge in the study group. They were used alternative analysis and a T-criterion by Student-Fisher.

Results: The frequency, timing and sequence of cleaning gear are directly dependent on the knowledge of the parents. Knowledge resources, duration and food intake following the final cleaning are not depending on parental knowledge; Intermediate feeding is not in connection with parental knowledge. The type of interim food intake and fluid depend on parental knowledge. No link between parental knowledge and visit the child in the dental office.

Conclusions: Parental knowledge in the majority of cases, define the knowledge and behavior of the child.

Keywords: promotion, oral health, children, preschool