Oral care for infants: a survey of Nebraska general dentists

Abstract

This study sought to assess the attitudes, behavior, and demographics of general dentists in the state of Nebraska concerning overall oral care of infants. A 15-item questionnaire and accompanying cover letter were mailed to 800 licensed general dentists in the state of Nebraska. The survey asked for demographic information, the number of years that the dentist had been practicing dentistry, the type of practice, the dentist's additional training (if any), and the dentist's patient base. The survey also asked questions related to a child's first visit to a dental practice. A self-addressed stamped envelope was enclosed for dentists to return the survey. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used to analyze data. Based on the results of this survey, most practitioners reported seeing children; however, only 11.9% saw children before their first birthday. Most practitioners reported performing oral hygiene procedures for young children, but few dentists surveyed provide restorative services. Most dentists reported discussing oral hygiene practices during infant oral health examinations, but few dentists discuss caries risk.