Kizilay, Fatma NurKizilci, EsraMahyaddinova, TurkanGumusboga, Zekiye Seyma2024-08-042024-08-0420242564-77842564-7040https://doi.org/10.58600/eurjther1944https://search.trdizin.gov.tr/yayin/detay/1249003https://hdl.handle.net/11616/92964Objective: Dental caries poses a significant health concern affecting, 60%-90% of children globally. While fluoride is widely utilized to prevent and eliminate dental caries, recent negative media coverage and concerns about irresponsible fluoride use have prompted a shift in parental perspectives. This study explores parental knowledge, preferences, and attitudes regarding preventive measures, with a focus on fluoride and potential natural or herbal alternatives. Methods: Our research was designed as a survey study. A survey form consisting of 11 questions was delivered to parents of children aged 6-14 years and presented to the Erciyes University Department of Pediatric Dentistry for examination or treatment were included in the study. A total of 300 parents participated in the study. Data was recorded as numbers and percentages. Results: Of the parents, 69% (207) reported that if they were offered natural herbal compounds instead of fluorinated varnish, they would prefer natural alternatives. A statistically significant relationship was found between the responses received from the parents about the effects of fluoride and the educational level of the parents (p<0.05). Only 4 (1.3%) university graduate parents stated that fluoride had harmful effects. We found that 80.95% of the fathers and 68.39% of the mothers stated that they would prefer natural or herbal alternatives for their children instead of fluorinated varnish, and this was a statistically significant result (p<0.05). Conclusion: Parents do not have sufficient knowledge and attitudes about preventive practices in oral dental health, and some parents still avoid the use of fluoride products. Therefore, there is a need to increase fluoride intake and its effects on children's health by educating parents or informing dentists.eninfo:eu-repo/semantics/openAccessFluorideNatural preparationPediatric dentistryArticle30334034610.58600/eurjther19441249003WOS:001178589800001N/A