Parental Knowledge And Attitudes Toward Preventive Dentistry: A Study In Al Qassim, Saudi Arabia

Early diagnosis and treatment of oral health conditions are crucial for preventing complications later in life. Primary prevention focuses on the initial stages of disease, while secondary prevention aims to halt the progression of existing conditions . In dentistry, early prevention, especially targeting dental plaque at its earliest stage, is the most effective method to avoid long-term issues. Proper oral hygiene, reducing sugar intake, using mouthwashes, and consuming fibrous foods can significantly prevent plaque buildup. Alongside population-based prevention efforts, routine dental checkups every six months are essential for preventing dental decay .

For children, parental decisions play a major role in maintaining good oral health . Preventive dental care offers a more cost-effective and time-saving approach for managing children’s oral health. Topical and systemic fluoride applications, remineralizing dentifrices and chewing gums, pit and fissure sealants, fluoride varnish, mouthguards for sports injuries, and interceptive orthodontics all contribute to optimal oral health in children . However, these procedures often require professional guidance. Furthermore, while dental appliances may correct minor issues in jaw growth, they can potentially cause adverse effects later if not carefully managed . Parents’ behaviors toward preventive oral health significantly shape their children’s future oral care habits , particularly in preschool years, when parental influence is strongest . Parents need to become familiar with preventive dentistry to ensure that their children take full advantage of available dental services. As such, parental involvement in preventive oral health can have a long-lasting impact on their children’s overall dental well-being.

Despite the clear importance of parental involvement, there is a notable gap in research on parental knowledge and attitudes toward preventive dentistry in the Al Qassim region of Saudi Arabia. Understanding the perceptions and practices of parents is essential, as their involvement is key to fostering good oral health habits in children. A similar study was conducted in Riyadh, a large urban center in Saudi Arabia . However, Al Qassim represents a more suburban and rural population, offering a different perspective on the same issue. The need for research specific to this population is evident, as it provides insight into the unique challenges and behaviors of parents in this region.