Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Infant Oral Health Care: A survey of general dentists, pediatric dentists, and Pediatricians in Virginia

Author(s): Brickhouse T, Unkel J, Kancitis I, Best A, Davis R
Journal: Pediatric Dentistry
Volume (number): 30/NO 2
Month, Year: Mar/ Apr 2008
Major topic: Infant oral health
Minor topic(s:
Type of Article: A survey
Main Purpose: To evaluate medical and dental providers current knowledge and experience in infant oral health.
Overview of method of research: 300 randomly selected pediatricians, 300 randomly selected general dentists, and all the pediatric dentists in Virginia (122) were sent surveys consisting of 17 questions regarding routine infant oral health care protocol. Demographic data was also obtained.
Findings: 379 surveys were obtained 128 general dentists, 121 pediatricians, 93 pediatric dentists. 55% of general dentists report not treating children 0-36 months. 74% of pediatric dentists report that children should be seen by their dentist within the first year, and only 12% of general dentists and 5% of pediatricians recommend this. (this is written differently in the chart on page 149). 77% of general dentists, 75% of pediatricians, and 80% of pediatric dentists responded that both dentists and pediatricians are responsible for infant oral health care.
Key points/Summary: More education is needed in both the medical and dental communities about infant oral health care.
Assessment of article: Great article would like to see it done in more states besides Virginia.

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