About the Pediatric Oral Health Practices Survey

Pediatric dental disease is largely preventable but continues to impact too many children and families, particularly in underrepresented, marginalized communities. Pediatricians are essential partners in keeping patients’ teeth healthy but may lack the knowledge, training, and incentive to incorporate oral health promotion and disease prevention services into care for young children. 

The Pediatric Oral Health Practices Survey, conducted by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Section on Oral Health (SOOH) in Summer 2023, sought to 1) better understand pediatricians’ provision of preventive oral health services for children ≤5 years of age and, 2) assess physician familiarity with a newer tool for treating early dental caries – silver diamine fluoride.

Through promotion to relevant AAP sections, councils, and committees, 337 pediatricians completed the survey. Eligibility required that participants be general or subspeciality pediatricians who provide direct patient care.