Deciduous Teeth Extraction Practice and Associated Factors Among Under Five-Years-Old Children in the Gambella Region, South West, Ethiopia: A Mixed Study.

Background And Aims: Deciduous teeth extraction (DTE) is a harmful traditional practice often performed by traditional healers. This practice can lead to both acute and chronic complications that significantly impact children's health. Despite national strategies and initiatives, DTE remains prevalent in Ethiopia, especially in the Gambella region. However, there is limited information on its prevalence and determinants in this area.

Method: Both qualitative and quantitative studies were conducted. A community-based cross-sectional study involved 803 mothers with children under five in the Gambella region. Multistage simple random sampling was employed, and data were collected using a pretested structured questionnaire and in-depth interviews. Data entry was performed using Epi Data version 4.6, and the analysis was conducted in SPSS version 25. Both bivariable and multivariable binary logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with deciduous tooth extraction (DTE). Odds ratios were calculated with a 95% confidence interval, and a p-value of less than 0.05 was used to determine statistical significance.

Result: The prevalence of Deciduous teeth extraction practice among < 5 years was 48.3% (95% CI: 0.44-0.51). Mothers lack of awareness (AOR = 2.08; 95 CI:1.21-3.58), mothers lack of information on scientific solutions of teething symptoms (AOR = 2.08; 95% CI: 1.21-3.60), mother's positive attitude towards milk tooth extraction (AOR = 10.06; 95%CI: 6.36-15.91), being ill during teething eruption (AOR = 8.70; 95% CI: 5.56-13.62) and Community DTE tradition (AOR = 2.06; 95% CI: 1.34-3.15) were significantly associated. The qualitative findings also found that culture, misconception about DTE, peer and social pressure as factors.

Conclusions: Deciduous teeth extraction practice in the Gambella region poses a significant public health concern. Lack of awareness regarding the consequences and scientific solutions for teething symptoms, mothers' attitudes, illness perceptions during teething, and community traditions were identified factors. Hence, comprehensive awareness campaigns involving all stakeholders should be emphasized. Health care providers should play a crucial role to educate both mothers and traditional healers.