A Mixed-Methods Study on Topical Fluoride Beliefs and Refusal Behaviors for Caregivers of Children with Special Health Care Needs.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

To understand topical fluoride-related beliefs and refusal behaviors for caregivers of children with special health care needs (CSHCN).

Methods

This was an explanatory sequential mixed methods study. For the quantitative analyses, we surveyed 520 caregivers to (a) compare fluoride-related beliefs between caregivers of CSHCN and caregivers of healthy children and (b) evaluate the association between special health care need (SHCN) status and topical fluoride refusal. We used logistic regression models to generate unadjusted odds ratios, confounder-adjusted odds ratios (AOR), and 95% confidence intervals (CI). For the qualitative analyses, we interviewed 56 caregivers who refused or were hesitant about topical fluoride. Data were coded deductively and compared by SHC

SUBMITTER: Koh M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10876822 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature