Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 1, 2026
09:03
Nasal Brushing Sampling and Processing Using Digital High Speed Ciliary Videomicroscopy – Adaptation for the COVID-19 Pandemic
Published on: November 7, 2020
Toothbrushing behavior changes among korean students pre- and post-COVID-19: lessons and policy implications
Ji-Young Son1, Dong-Hun Han2,3
1Department of Dental Hygiene, College of Bioecological Health, Shinhan University, Uijeongbu, Korea.
BMC Oral Health
|June 29, 2026
Summary
The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted children's toothbrushing habits in South Korea, reducing post-lunch brushing but increasing bedtime brushing. This highlights the need for flexible school oral health programs during crises.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Epidemiology
Background:
- South Korea's School Oral Health Room Program, established in 1999, aimed to improve children's oral hygiene.
- The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted established children's oral hygiene practices.
- Understanding these disruptions is crucial for maintaining oral health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on toothbrushing practices among South Korean children aged 4-15.
- To compare brushing behaviors before, during, and after the pandemic.
- To inform future public health strategies for pediatric oral hygiene.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of cross-sectional data from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES VIII-IX, 2018-2023).
- Inclusion of 5,251 children aged 4-15 years.
- Assessment of toothbrushing behaviors across three periods: pre-pandemic (2018-2019), during pandemic (2020-2021), and post-pandemic (2022-2023), using statistical analyses.
Main Results:
- A marked decline in post-lunch toothbrushing was observed across all age groups during and after the pandemic.
- Toothbrushing before bedtime increased post-pandemic, especially in older children (10-12 years).
- Post-breakfast brushing declined during the pandemic with partial recovery, while other brushing times showed varied trends.
Conclusions:
- The COVID-19 pandemic significantly altered children's toothbrushing routines, notably reducing post-lunch brushing and increasing bedtime brushing.
- These findings emphasize the vulnerability of school-based oral health programs during public health crises.
- Adaptable and resilient oral health strategies are essential to ensure sustained effectiveness.
Related Concept Videos
01:26Assessment of the Mouth
A thorough mouth assessment, including inspection and palpation of the lips, gums, tongue, tonsils, uvula, and pharynx, is crucial in detecting potential health issues. Diseases ranging from oral cancer to systemic conditions like diabetes could be identified early through careful oral examination. This article provides a detailed guide on conducting a comprehensive mouth assessment.
Mouth Inspection
The inspection begins with visually examining the mouth for symmetry, color, and size.
Mouth Inspection
The inspection begins with visually examining the mouth for symmetry, color, and size.
01:15Handwashing III: During the Procedure and Post-Procedure Steps
To wash hands properly, follow these steps:
01:28Development of the Oral Microbiota
The establishment of the oral microbiome begins before birth, challenging the long-held belief that the fetal oral cavity is sterile. The presence of oral microbes such as Streptococcus and Fusobacterium in amniotic fluid suggests that microbial exposure may occur in utero, potentially through translocation from the maternal oral or gastrointestinal tract. This early colonization primes the neonatal immune system and sets the stage for subsequent microbial succession. Maternal health,...
01:21Tooth Anatomy
The human tooth enables us to eat a variety of foods, speak clearly, and even aid in shaping our faces. Teeth are composed of various elements that work together. Here's a detailed look at the anatomy of a human tooth.
The Crown, Neck, and Root
The visible part of the tooth is referred to as the crown. It's covered by enamel, the hardest substance in the human body. The crown is uniquely shaped for each type of tooth, allowing for different functions such as cutting, tearing, or grinding food.
The Crown, Neck, and Root
The visible part of the tooth is referred to as the crown. It's covered by enamel, the hardest substance in the human body. The crown is uniquely shaped for each type of tooth, allowing for different functions such as cutting, tearing, or grinding food.