Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
Cumhuriyet Dental Journal, cilt.28, sa.2, ss.187-191, 2025 (Scopus)
Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate parents' knowledge and attitudes regarding the effects of iron supplementation on tooth staining and dental caries in children and to examine the influence of demographic factors on knowledge and behaviors. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2024 with a randomly selected group of 281 parents who visited the Department of Pediatric Dentistry at Inönü University Faculty of Dentistry. Data were collected using a structured 12-question survey consisting of three sections: demographic information, knowledge, and attitudes regarding iron supplementation. Responses were scored as 1 for correct answers and 0 for incorrect answers, with knowledge levels categorized as follows:>66.7% (adequate), 33.7–66.7% (moderate), and <33.7% (inadequate). Statistical analyses were performed using the Chi-square and Fisher’s Exact tests, with a significance level set at p<0.05. Results: Among the 140 parents who participated in the study, 49.8% reported using iron supplements for their children; however, only 50.4% adhered to a regular usage schedule. While 47.7% correctly identified the appropriate time to start supplementation, only 16% accurately stated that iron does not cause dental caries, and 35% associated iron supplementation with tooth staining. Although 60.9% of parents had a moderate level of knowledge, adherence to recommended practices was low, with only 16.3% demonstrating high adherence. Significant differences were observed between genders, with mothers displaying higher knowledge levels and adherence than fathers (p<0.01). Additionally, parental education level had a positive effect on knowledge and behavior. Conclusions: This study revealed that parents’ misconceptions and lack of knowledge regarding iron supplementation and oral health affect supplement use. Comprehensive educational programs are needed to address these misconceptions and promote proper supplementation practices among parents.