Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to assess the parental willingness to seek treatment needs for their children from University Dental Clinics (UDCs) in Riyadh and the factors affecting their choice.
Methods: A 16-item self-administered e-questionnaire was used to assess parental perceptions regarding acquiring pedodontic treatment for their children at UDCs. This study was conducted among consenting parents/ caregivers who were residents of Riyadh (Saudi and non-Saudi nationals) and who had healthy children aged 12 years and below.
Results: Around 77.6% of the participants were willing to treat their children from UDCs. Only 39.7% of the participants were aware that their children were to be treated by dental students under the supervision of a specialist at the UDCs (n = 151); almost 23.7% were unaware as to who provided care to their child at UDCs; 23.7% were unaware regarding the caregiver qualifications. A positive correlation was observed between the attendance of visitors to UDCs and the facilities provided, as well as in the satisfaction level towards the treatment provided at these centers (p =

Key words: Parental preferences, pediatric dental care, university dental clinics, utilization of services, pediatric dental treatment