Maternal perception of the impact of anterior caries and its treatment on children: A qualitative study

Abstract

Background: Qualitative studies could allow a more comprehensive understanding about the breadth of children's experiences and perspectives regarding the impact of dental caries treatment.

Aim: To assess parental perception about children's oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) following the rehabilitation of carious primary anterior teeth.

Methods: A purposive sample of parents of preschool children attending a University Dental Clinic due to caries in primary anterior teeth was recruited. Qualitative individual interviews about parental perception regarding children's oral health were conducted, audio-recorded, and transcribed verbatim. An interview guide was used, based on the instrument ECOHIS. The responses were analysed using a thematic analysis approach.

Results: Mothers of 10 children aged 4-8 years old participated. Four themes emerged during data analysis: (a) Perception about the presence and occurrence of caries; (b) Impact on the child's OHRQoL; (c) Impact on family's OHRQoL; and (d) Changes in OHRQoL following oral rehabilitation.

Conclusion: Mothers of children with dental caries in anterior teeth reported impact on children's and family's life. Also, mothers' reports demonstrated that oral rehabilitation caused positive changes in their children's well-being and everyday life.

Keywords: pediatric dentistry; qualitative study; quality of life.