Barriers and facilitators of diet counselling in prevention of early childhood caries: A qualitative study of primary caregivers.

BACKGROUND

Excessive consumption of sugar is a primary factor for dental caries, and guidelines have been developed to reduce dental caries by modifying diet, especially in children. However, there is paucity of literature regarding barriers and facilitators faced by parents in promoting healthier dietary habits in prevention of Early Childhood Caries (ECC).

OBJECTIVE

To identify barriers and facilitators of diet counselling faced by primary caregivers in prevention of ECC.

METHODOLOGY: The study was conducted in the Department of Dentistry of a tertiary care hospital in Bhopal on either or both parents of children up to an age of 6 years with ECC. Interviews were conducted to identify the challenges faced and modifications done in children's cariogenic diet for preventing ECC. Interviews were transcribed, translated, coded, and organised into themes. Analysis was done using NVivo 15 software.

RESULTS

Three FGDs were conducted on 21 participants (11 male and 10 female), aged 31-45 years, from urban areas only. Seven themes emerged demonstrating that the majority of primary caregivers were aware of aetiology but lacked healthy dietary knowledge. Counselling resulted in positive feedback with shift from sugary diet to more nutritious alternatives, improved oral health, adoption of healthy diet, reduced parental stress, and enhanced confidence in managing diet. Facilitators included support from pedodontists, whereas time and cultural norms were notable barriers. Recommendations include reminders and periodic follow-ups to sustain changes.

CONCLUSION

Efficient diet counselling and addressing the barriers through tailored interventions and innovative delivery mechanisms can definitely play an impactful role in diet counselling programs for management of ECC.