[Evaluation of caries prevention programmes in preschool children]

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Dentistry
• Public Health

Background:

• Dental caries is a prevalent issue in preschool children.
• Effective prevention strategies are crucial for long-term oral health.
• Parental attitudes and program opinions are important for intervention success.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of two caries prevention approaches in preschool children.
• To evaluate parental attitudes towards caries prophylaxis and treatment.
• To assess the impact of supervised toothbrushing on oral hygiene and dentition.

Main Methods:

• A two-year study involving preschool children aged 3-6 years.
• Two approaches: daily toothbrushing supervised by (1) teachers or (2) parents.
• Use of low-fluoride toothpaste and regular toothbrush replacement.
• Assessment of plaque index (Pl.I) and caries progression.

Main Results:

• Teacher-supervised toothbrushing (Approach 1) significantly reduced Pl.I by 89% in 4-year-olds.
• Approach 1 decreased caries progression in primary and permanent dentition.
• Oral hygiene showed a more prominent effect on primary teeth caries than diet.
• Parent-supervised toothbrushing (Approach 2) yielded unsatisfactory results.

Conclusions:

• Teacher-supervised daily toothbrushing is an effective caries prevention strategy for preschool children.
• Oral hygiene practices, particularly when supervised by trained professionals, are key to reducing caries.
• Parental involvement in supervision requires further optimization for comparable efficacy.