Evaluation of the Behavioral Determinants of Infant Oral Hygiene Practices in a Rural Area

Background Dental caries is one of the most common oral health diseases in children. Early childhood (ECC) children can lead to delayed overall growth future. This be prevented by early initiation infant hygiene practices (IOHP). As mothers are primary caregivers, assessing their behavioral factors that play a significant role IOHP help design customized prevention plan for appropriate practices. Methodology A questionnaire based-study was carried out an Anganwadi (rural child care center India) Nagpur region, Central India, two months. Parents young were interviewed about The study planned evaluate various methods used parents perform and identify determinants affect IOHP. An integrative model behavior change determining performing hygiene. Results Out 144 parents, 105 (72.92%) initiated immediately after birth. Most them (76, 52.78%) moist cloth clean cavity. other parent’s finger, water, etc. unaware commercially available wipes. theory, beliefs, emotional reactions, self-standard, skills played modifying parents’ intention maintain There direct correlation between educational qualification mother Conclusion results this reveal structure includes like external support, social norms, responsible towards care. These vary from individual individual. Modifying these specific could improve infants toddlers. Community-based programs should tailormade target barriers.