• Wipaporn Lomsiriudom D.D.S., M.S.(Pediatric Dentistry)
• Chutima Trairatvorakul D.D.S., Certificated in Pediatric Dentistry, M.S.(Pediatric Dentistry)

Objective The purpose of this qualitative study was to identify village peopleûs dietary believes
and habits regarding early childhood caries.

Materials and methods In collecting data from 36 key informants, different techniques were
used including taking records, participant observation, and informal and in-depth interviews.

Results The majority of children were breast fed while bottle feeding was not popular among
this group. Sticky rice chewed by the caretakers was fed to the children, supplemented with Cerelac.
The villagers thought that snack consumed were common by their children, and the sweetened candy
were solely cause of caries. These behaviors were influenced by their ancestors, media via televisions,
words of mouth among the villagers together with the advice from public health personnel. Breast
feeding behaviors should be reinforced, while improper feeding pattern, Only candy causes cavities
believe should be modified. Cerelac feeding, with unknown consequences, need further investigation
leading to conclusions. Altogether, these invaluable data can be use to develop proper guidelines
for counseling.

Conclusion The understanding from this study would help health care providers administer
appropriate dental interventions that are culturally suitable to popular thoughts, beliefs, and lifestyles
to attain better child oral health in the future.

(CU Dent J. 2008;31:69-86)