Empowering pediatric nursing in oral health: A narrative review of antiseptic and educational interventions

Abstract

Background: Pediatric nurses, have a crucial role in enhancing the oral health of children mainly through a number of areas, including direct care, assessments, educating and encouraging families in hospitals, schools, clinics, and community environments. Objectives: This review analyzes the evolution of pediatric oral health care, shifting the focus from purely dental-led procedures to nurse-led interventions. It evaluates the efficacy of antiseptic strategies (specifically chlorhexidine) and educational programs implemented by nurses in hospital and community settings. Methods: A narrative review was conducted using a search strategy across PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and ResearchGate for English-language articles published between 2005 and 2025. Fifteen studies meeting specific criteria for nurse-involvement or nursing-relevant protocols were analyzed. Results: Current evidence indicates that nurse-led interventions—combining chlorhexidine application with health education—significantly reduce dental plaque and gingivitis. However, efficacy relies heavily on the structured training of nursing staff, which is currently inconsistent across settings. Conclusion: Nurses are pivotal in bridging the gap between dental recommendations and daily patient care. To maximize outcomes, nursing curricula must expand oral health competencies, and healthcare systems must adopt standardized, nurse-driven oral hygiene protocols.