[A selective, need-oriented prevention program for primary schoolchildren - results after two years]

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Dentistry
• Preventive Oral Health
• Caries Risk Assessment

Context:

• Study involved 427 first-grade pupils in Göttingen.
• Children were categorized into three risk groups based on clinical and saliva tests.
• Preventive care was tailored to the assessed risk levels.

Purpose:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a need-oriented preventive dental program.
• To assess caries increment and oral health improvements in different risk groups.
• To determine the impact on cariogenic microorganisms.

Summary:

• After two years, caries increment was 0.5 DF surfaces (minor risk), 1.0 DF surfaces (medium risk), and 1.8 DF surfaces (high risk).
• The overall sanation of deciduous teeth increased from 10% to 47%.
• Saliva tests indicated a significant reduction in cariogenic organisms.

Impact:

• Demonstrates the efficacy of individualized preventive strategies in reducing pediatric caries.
• Highlights the positive effect on deciduous tooth health and the oral microbiome.
• Provides evidence for implementing targeted dental public health initiatives in schools.