| Abstract [eng] |
Background: Research has shown that there is a potential association between vitamin D and early childhood caries (ECC). Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to an increased risk of dental caries in children. The students’ understanding on this subject is critical in addressing the problem. Vitamin D is essential for oral health, and a lack of it has been related to weakening tooth enamel and an increased risk of dental caries. Interdisciplinary relationships and continual surveys are required to advance knowledge. Effective preventive strategies against ECC can be done by increasing students’ understanding and mediate. Aim: The aim of this research is to investigate dentistry students’ knowledge about vitamin D deficiency importance to ECC at Vilnius University based on a primary quantitative survey research. Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire was conducted among 90 from a total 162 international and Lithuanian dentistry students in study years from 2 to 5 at the Vilnius University in Vilnius from 17th October 2023 until 30th of October 2023. A structured questionnaire containing 29 close-ended questions, divided into two parts, was used. The knowledge and assessment of vitamin D deficiency related to ECC in dentistry students was tested. Result: The sample size was 86 students. The overall understanding of the importance and physiological role of vitamin D was good, with some gaps in knowledge on issues. 60% believed vitamin D3 is the most important form, and 15% chose vitamin D2. 81% answered correctly about measuring vitamin D levels in the body. 33% knew the recommended minimum daily intake of vitamin D for infants (400 IU per day). Only 16% identified vitamin D supplements as the most effective source for children. Over 60% chose ‘Fortified food’ and ‘Fatty fish’ as the best sources of vitamin D. 97% of students were certain about vitamin D deficiency being more common in certain geographical regions. 70% of respondents communicated about vitamin D with family, however 80% had not discussed it with their dentists. 65% students in the second year of study and 80% in the third year had not discussed vitamin D with their dentists. 70% of females and 62% of males had differing views on the importance of giving vitamin D to children. 78% believed in knowledge about vitamin D in ECC is important for their future work as dentists. National students rate their self-confidence lower than international students (20-25%). The knowledge of the second-year students of the minimum daily intake for children aged 1 to 18 was better than in other study years (p = 0,036). The national study group has performed better than the international study group (p = 0,034) by giving more correct answers to questionnaire. Third year students have almost never talked to their lecturer at Vilnius University about the importance of vitamin D and this differed in comparison to the second, fourth and fifth years (p = 0,009). More female than male students found it extremely important that children would intake vitamin D (p = < 0,001). Almost all second-year students are not confident in talking to the patients’ parents about the importance of vitamin D. Conclusion: The survey highlights the significance of dentistry students’ knowledge of vitamin D deficiency concerning ECC. Although the participants showed a good understanding of the importance of vitamin D, there were also some misconceptions that require further education and awareness in effective vitamin D sources and vitamin D supplementation in children, consultation in pregnant parents and low confidence level in communication with patients about that topic. Comprehensive vitamin D education must be integrated into dentistry curriculum. |
