This cross-sectional study included a group of 805 children aged 3 to 14 years. Children's oral health was clinically evaluated using the DMFT (Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth) and PUFA (Pulpal involvement, Ulceration, Fistula, and Abscess) indices to provide an objective measure of dental health.

This cross-sectional study involved a cohort of 805 parents of children aged 3 to 14 years. The primary objective was to assess parental knowledge and attitudes towards antibiotic use. No interventions were implemented; instead, data were collected using a 45-item questionnaire based on the Parental Perceptions on Antibiotics (PAPA) scale. The PAPA scale evaluates various factors influencing parental decisions regarding antibiotic use, including knowledge, beliefs, behaviors, sources of information, adherence, and awareness of antibiotic resistance . The questionnaire was administered face-to-face to ensure accurate data collection and to facilitate clarification of any questions.

Evaluation of parents' knowledge level and misbeliefs regarding antibiotic use: This score is obtained from the Knowledge and Beliefs subscale of the PAPA scale and measures the level of knowledge of parents on issues such as the necessity and appropriateness of antibiotics.

The DMFT index assesses the dental caries experience by counting the number of decayed, missing, and filled permanent teeth. Scores range from 0 to 28 (or 32 depending on dentition), where higher scores indicate worse dental health (more caries experience).

The PUFA index measures the clinical consequences of untreated dental caries, including pulpal involvement, ulceration, fistula, and abscess formation. Scores range from 0 to 4, where higher scores indicate more severe clinical complications due to untreated caries.