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EARLY CHILDHOOD CARIES AND INFANT ORAL HEALTH -KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE, PRACTICES AMONG PEDIATRICIANS AND GENERAL PRACTITIONERS IN UDUPI DISTRICT

Background:Dental caries is a multifactorial microbial infectious disease characterized by demineralization of the inorganic and destruction of the organic substance of the tooth. Early Childhood Caries(ECC) affects children at the early stages of development and can have a detrimental effect on their growth and development. Pediatricians are the first healthcare personnel that children come in contact with and should be trained to identify and screen dental caries cases and refer to the concerned dentist at the earliest. Objectives:The objectives of the study were to assess the level of Knowledge, Attitude and Practices related to Early Childhood Caries among Pediatricians in Udupi District. Material and Methods: A prospective study was conducted among Pediatricians in Udupi district, a 20-item google form questionnaire was sent by means of social media (Whatsapp). The responses obtained were used to assess their knowledge, attitude and practices. Results:The results of the study show that the pediatricians have good knowledge with respect to ECC, but need to improve on their attitude and practice with relation to ECC. Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, it was proven that Pediatricians have adequate knowledge with regard to ECC.