[Knowledge, attitudes and practices of physicians west of Montreal Island regarding fluoride and the prevention of dental fluorosis].

  • 1 March 1993
    • journal article
    • abstracts
    • Vol. 84  (2) , 94-8
Abstract
In 1991, a questionnaire aimed at evaluating the knowledge, attitudes and practices with regard to fluoride and dental fluorosis was mailed to all the general practitioners and pediatricians of the Montreal West Island territory. The response rate after two mailings was 47.9%. The pediatricians know better than the general practitioners the fluoridation status of the cities of the territory; similarly for physicians with more than 15 years experience since graduation versus the younger physicians. In practice, 92.3% of the physicians prescribe fluoride supplements or vitamins for at least some of their patients aged less than six years old. As much as 76.3% of the physicians believe that the pediatricians and the general practitioners are responsible for prescribing fluoride to children less than six years old who visit them; only 59.4% believe themselves responsible for the dental health of these children. There are educational needs concerning fluoride, fluoride prescribing and prevention of dental fluorosis. Public health dentists should assist the medical profession in this educational process.

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