Oral health knowledge, perceptions and practices among parents, guardians and teachers in South Wales, UK: A qualitative study

Introduction Oral disease is largely preventable, however, families with low socioeconomic status show the greater burden worldwide and in Britain. Aims To explore the perceptions and knowledge, in relation to dental health, risk factors for dental disease and their role in oral health promotion, of teaching staff and parents of children attending primary schools positioned and serving both affluent and deprived populations in South Wales. Methods A qualitative approach using a focus group methodology was adopted. NVivo qualitative software was used to facilitate coding and analysis and to develop themes. Main outcome The main themes which emerged from the analysis were: responsibility, Designed to Smile, positive role modelling, dental attendance, personal experiences, oral health education messages and school policy. Conclusions If improvements in oral health are to be achieved the target population should be the most deprived sub-groups. Equity of access to dental care services in which oral healthcare is delivered according to need should be a priority. Furthermore, equitable and sustainable oral health promotion programmes should engage users in the delivery, address 'victim blaming' attitude and include accurate, consistent, unambiguous oral health messages.