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Effectiveness of a preventive educational programme on the oral health of preschool children

Alicia S Hochstetter1, María Josefina Lombardo, Luciana D'eramo

  • 1Department of Preventive and Community Dentistry, School of Dentistry, University of Buenos Aires. ashochstetter@yahoo.com.ar

Promotion & Education
|December 25, 2007
PubMed

Insights

A preventive-educational program significantly improved oral hygiene in preschool children, reducing plaque and gingival index. This dental intervention prevented decay progression in the experimental group over 12 months.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Dentistry
  • Preventive Dentistry
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Preschool children are susceptible to dental caries and gingivitis.
  • Early intervention programs are crucial for establishing lifelong oral health habits.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the effectiveness of a combined preventive-educational dental program for preschoolers.
  • To evaluate the impact on plaque index, gingival index, and dental decay.

Main Methods:

  • A randomized controlled trial involving 58 four-year-old children.
  • Experimental group received education for children, parents, and teachers.
  • Both groups received topical 1.23% acidulated fluoride phosphate applications every 6 months.
  • Oral health outcomes measured at baseline, 8 days, 6 months, and 12 months.

Main Results:

  • The experimental group showed significant reductions in gingival and plaque indices.
  • No significant increase in dental decay was observed in the experimental group.
  • The control group experienced significant increases in gingival and plaque indices and decayed surfaces.

Conclusions:

  • A comprehensive preventive-educational dental program is effective in improving oral hygiene in preschool children.
  • Such programs can significantly reduce plaque and gingivitis, and prevent caries progression.
  • Integrating education for children, parents, and teachers enhances program efficacy.

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