Methods: The dental histories of mothers of 100 children with age group of 4 to 8 years were obtained along with their educational level, frequency of dental check-ups & age of pacifier withdrawal. Data were analysed by using independent samples t-test, one way ANOVA, two-way ANOVA.
Results: There was a significant effect of maternal education on the age of pacifier withdrawal and the caries incidence; higher the maternal education, younger the age of pacifier withdrawal and less caries incidence. The frequency of dental visits influenced relationship between maternal education and age of pacifier withdrawal.
Conclusion: Unhealthy oral habits such as prolonged pacifier use and the caries prevalence can be reduced with the regular dental check-ups and higher levels of mother education. So we recommend that children should start dental visits at an early age and maintain visits at regular intervals.