Children's Oral HealthOral Health Opinions and Practices of Pediatricians: Updated Results From a National Survey
Section snippets
Methods
Data on oral health promotion practices of pediatricians were collected as part of the AAP Periodic Survey of Fellows. The AAP conducts these surveys on topics of importance to pediatricians 3 to 4 times per year. Surveys are 8-page self-administered questionnaires sent to a unique random sample of nonretired US AAP members. Periodic Survey 82 was sent to 1638 AAP members between July and December 2012. Oral health assessment was 1 of 3 topics included in this survey, with questions replicated
Sample Characteristics
In 2012, 790 completed questionnaires were received for a response rate of 48%. To assess possible nonresponse bias, respondents and nonrespondents were compared on variables available from the AAP membership file. No significant differences were found for gender (57.0% female). Respondents were slightly older than nonrespondents on average (47 years vs 43 years; P < .001). Practice location varied significantly among respondents and nonrespondents, respectively (Northeast respondents, 22.5% vs
Discussion
Consistent with previous surveys, this national survey of pediatricians found support for preventive oral health activities in medical offices. Respondents agreed they should identify caries and provide counseling on oral hygiene practices and diet. Since 2008, more pediatricians agree they should apply fluoride varnish (2008, 19%; 2012, 41%). Despite agreement that oral health activities should occur during medical visits, pediatricians' participation in these activities continues to be
Conclusion
Pediatricians support providing oral health activities in medical offices. Although the number of pediatricians who received oral health training has grown, research is needed to identify how best to train pediatricians so that they are more confident engaging in these activities and more children receive quality preventive oral health services. Additional research should examine the varying state-level training requirements and payment, which might affect pediatricians' participation.
Acknowledgment
The views expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of the AAP.
Financial disclosure: This study was supported by the AAP. Dr Kranz received support from an NIH NRSA T90 Training Grant (Grant NIH/NIDCR 5T90DE021986-03).
Authorship Statement: Dr Quinonez conceptualized the study and drafted the manuscript with Dr Kranz. Dr Kranz provided additional data analysis. Dr Lewis conceptualized the study, designed the data collection instruments, and
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The authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose.