title: Perspectives of Maryland adults regarding caries prevention.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  We obtained in-depth information from low-income parents and caregivers of young children about their knowledge and understanding of and practices related to the prevention and control of dental caries (tooth decay).
  
  
  METHODS
  In 2010, we conducted 4 focus groups in Maryland communities with low-income, English-speaking parents and caregivers who had at least 1 child aged 6 years or younger or who were pregnant. We developed a focus group guide based on findings of a previous statewide random telephone survey of adults with young children.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Most participants had limited understanding of and extensive misinformation about how to prevent dental caries. They were confused about the use of juice and its impact on their child's teeth and had limited understanding of the use of fluorides to prevent caries. Most did not drink tap water and did not give it to their children; rather, they used bottled water.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  These results and those of the statewide telephone survey strongly suggest the need for educational interventions designed for those with limited levels of education.
authors: Alice M. Horowitz is with the Department of Behavioral and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Maryland, College Park. Dushanka V. Kleinman is with the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatics, School of Public Health, University of Maryland. Wendy Child is an independent consultant, College Park, Maryland. Catherine Maybury is with the Office of the Dean, School of Public Health, University of Maryland.
authors: Alice M
authors: AM
authors: Horowitz
authors: Dushanka V
authors: DV
authors: Kleinman
authors: Wendy
authors: W
authors: Child
authors: Catherine
authors: C
authors: Maybury
mesh_terms: D017028:Caregivers; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D019140:Dental Care for Children / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D003731:Dental Caries / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control*; D005260:Female; D005459:Fluorides / Q000008:administration & dosage; D017144:Focus Groups; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D008396:Maryland; D010290:Parents; D011203:Poverty
chemical_list: D005459:Fluorides