Burgette J M, Lu K C, Dahl Z T et al. Factors affecting maternal decision making about grandparents' cariogenic dietary choices for children: A qualitative study. J Am Dent Assoc 2022; DOI: 10.1016/j.adaj.2022.10.003.

Family relationships can be difficult.

From semi-structured interviews of 126 parents of children in the USA aged between 3 and 5, relationships with those who had responsibility for their children's oral health were discussed. Most (n = 107) described relationships with grandparents and 85% of those said that the grandparent gave their children cariogenic food. About one-third addressed this issue with grandparents but another one-third didn't. Reasons for not addressing the issue were infrequent contact (once a month is a special time with Grandma so it's not a big deal) and total dependence on the grandparent for childcare. The fear of loss of childcare was greater than the fear of carious teeth. A strong relationship with the grandparent encouraged discussion and resolution of the issue but a weak relationship had the opposite effect.

Parents may need additional assistance with interpersonal skills and conflict resolution. Wider family-based intervention strategies may relieve pressure on the parents alone to address the issues.