Risky behavior practices of mothers of children up to 3 years of age related to oral hygiene, diet, and bacterial transmission of cariogenic bacteria

Improper oral hygiene habits can affect children's dental health, leading to a greater prevalence of oral diseases. Correct nutritional practices and protection from early transmission of cariogenic microorganisms can prevent dental diseases. Objective: This study assessed awareness and knowledge of oral care among mothers of children up to 3 years of age. Materials and Methods: 90 mothers of children up to 3 years of age participated in the study. Through a survey method, information was collected about the diet, their oral hygiene habits, as well as the risk practices for the transmission of cariogenic microorganisms from mother to child were studied. Results: The main reason for the first dental visit of a child up to 3 years of age was a preventive examination. 35% of the children consume carbohydrate foods more than 3 times a day. 30% of the children above 2 years have a frequent intake of sugary beverages. In children up to 2 years of age, 30% use sweetened drinks or milk formula from a baby bottle. The child's oral hygiene begins after the age of one. Mothers of children more than one state that they regularly clean the oral cavity of their child. A large proportion of parents share utensils with their children during meals. The risk of bacterial transmission is most significant when kissing the child on the mouth – more than 50% of the parents admit this harmful habit. Conclusion: Parents of children up to 3 years of age still need to learn more about proper oral hygiene practices, proper control of carbohydrate intake, and risky practices for transmitting cariogenic microorganisms from them to the child. The data suggest a need to develop preventive protocols to improve knowledge and awareness of children's oral health among parents.