Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 2, 2026

Measuring Maxillary Posterior Tooth Movement: A Model Assessment using Palatal and Dental Superimposition
Published on: February 23, 2024
Cost-effectiveness of 6-year school-based caries preventive interventions in Thailand: a system dynamics modeling
Tin Htet Oo1, Songchai Thitasomakul1, Phongpat Sontamino2
1Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand.
Objective:
This study evaluated the cost-effectiveness of 6-year school-based caries preventive interventions [supervised toothbrushing (STB) and dental sealant] in Thailand using a System Dynamics Model (SDM).
Methods:
An SDM, which simulates changes in population health over time using stocks, flows, and feedback relationships, was developed to represent caries progression. In total, three scenarios were analyzed: STB, sealant, and a base case without intervention for 6 years, covering children aged 6-12 years. Costs included interventions and treatment (fillings, endodontic treatment, and extraction). Effectiveness was measured as the number of caries-free children. Model inputs were derived from national data, literature, and expert validation. Changes in outcomes and costs were driven by intervention effects.
Results:
Sealant had a lower cost-effectiveness ratio (CER) of 505.3 Thai baht (15.79 USD) per caries-free child versus 537.2 baht (16.79 USD) for STB. Both were more costly and more effective than the base case, with an incremental effectiveness ratio (ICER) of 1,985.3 baht (62.04 USD) for STB and 1,210.5 baht (37.83 USD) for sealant per additional caries-free child. Sealant was dominant over STB (negative ICER), meaning it was more effective and less costly. In best-case sensitivity scenarios, sealant was more effective but also more costly than STB, representing a trade-off, with an ICER of 121.54 baht (3.80 USD) per additional caries-free child.
Conclusion:
Sealant is the preferred strategy or a trade-off option when resources allow for additional caries-free children, while STB can serve as a low-cost alternative. Policy should prioritize sealant by optimizing effectiveness, controlling costs, and targeting high-risk groups.
Related Concept Videos
Modeling with Differential Equations
Pharmacodynamic Models: Direct Effect Model and Indirect Response Model
Models of Health Promotion and Illness Prevention II
The agent-host-environment model states that disease results from...
Pharmacodynamic Models: Link Model and Systems Pharmacodynamic Model
Pharmacodynamic Models: Additive and Proportional Drug Effect Model
Impact of Pharmacokinetic–Pharmacodynamic Models: Regulatory Decisions
