RT - Journal of Clinical Pediatric Dentistry ID - 10.22514/jocpd.2025.024 T1 - The in-home management of childhood fever associated with dental issues: a cross-sectional study of parental knowledge in Saudi Arabia A1 - Ali A Assiry K1 - Fever; Dental problems; Consciousness; Brain damage; Antibiotics; Parental practice YR - 2025 SP - 59 AB -
Background: Childhood fever originating from dental issues is a potentially serious health concern affecting numerous children. This study aims to investigate its prevalence in Saudi Arabia and parental knowledge regarding its management. Methods: Using a self-administered questionnaire, 951 parents attending various centers in Saudi Arabia were recruited in this cross-sectional study between 01 September and 31 December 2023. Results: The questionnaire includes parents’ demographic characteristics and fever management practices. Nearly 65% of parents expressed concern about fever’s harmful effects, including potential loss of consciousness, dehydration and brain damage. Moreover, 64.2% of parents report consistently using antibiotics without a prescription. Conclusions: Our findings demonstrated a lack of knowledge among parents when it comes to managing their children’s dental-related fever. A proactive educational approach to addressing this concern is required by healthcare professionals, as well as the community at large.