A questionnaire-based study of Paediatric Dentists’ knowledge of teething signs, symptoms and management

Reeve-Brook, Lauren, Bhatia, Shannu ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6363-8306, Al-yaseen, Waraf, Innes, Nicola ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9984-0012 and Monaghan, Nigel 2022. A questionnaire-based study of Paediatric Dentists’ knowledge of teething signs, symptoms and management. BDJ Open 8 , 7. 10.1038/s41405-022-00099-4

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Abstract

Introduction Signs and symptoms attributed to erupting primary teeth are commonly known as “teething”. Its existence is controversial with concern that overusing this term might mask other illnesses and some treatments may be unnecessary or harmful. Parents/carers can access over-the-counter remedies and may seek professional advice. This survey-based investigation explored gaps in knowledge, training, perceptions and experiences of UK Paediatric Dentists (PDs) regarding teething in young children. Method Cross-sectional study with a convenience sample of PDs with different training levels, accessed through the British Society for Paediatric Dentistry membership lists. A 10-item questionnaire explored participants’ knowledge of teething-related issues and management. Responses are presented using descriptive statistics. Results Of 80 responding PDs (response rate 27%), 62–74% suggested drooling, irritability, oral fixation and flushed cheeks were attributed to primary tooth eruption. Fifty-eight (72%) participants were unaware of guidelines, yet 53 (66%) felt guidance was needed. Conclusion Signs and symptoms of teething might mask underlying conditions so it should be a diagnosis of exclusion. PDs attributed similar signs and symptoms to teething, as have been reported in the literature, although some commented that they did not think teething was a condition. There was a lack of awareness over guidelines.

Item Type:	Article
Date Type:	Published Online
Status:	Published
Schools:	Dentistry
Additional Information:	This article is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License
Publisher:	Springer Nature [academic journals on nature.com]
ISSN:	2056-807X
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	21 March 2022
Date of Acceptance:	6 December 2021
Last Modified:	01 Dec 2024 22:25
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/148546

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