Effect of game-based teaching on the oral health of children: a systematic review of randomised control trials.

Poor oral health during childhood can lead to various oral diseases and have long-term implications for dental health. Innovative and engaging oral health educational approaches such as game-based teaching have emerged as a promising modality for health education. This systematic review examined the effectiveness of game-based teaching methods on the oral health of children (4-12 yrs). Scopus, Medline and Web of Science databases were searched according to specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Inclusion criteria included randomised trials that compared traditional methods of oral health education with game-based interventions in preschoolers and school-age children. The quality of the data was determined using Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials (ROB-2). A total of seven studies that examined 1097 children (4-12 yrs) were included in this systematic review with the association of game-based teaching of oral health. The findings indicated that the utilization of game-based methods significantly improved children's oral health outcomes when compared to traditional teaching approaches. Specifically, the game-based interventions demonstrated positive effects on various aspects of oral health, including enhanced oral health knowledge, improved oral hygiene scores, and reductions in debris and plaque scores. The game-based interventions were found to be more effective in promoting oral health when compared to conventional methods of teaching, such as verbal instructions or educational posters. Based on the limited evidence available, game-based teaching appears to be an effective approach for promoting oral health among children, consistently demonstrating positive outcomes, including improved oral health knowledge, enhanced oral hygiene scores, and reductions in debris and plaque scores. Further well-designed trials adhering to reporting guidelines and using objective measures are necessary before outlining universal guidelines for best practice.

Evaluating the impact of oral hygiene instruction and digital oral health education within cardiac rehabilitation clinics: A protocol for a novel, dual centre, parallel randomised controlled trial.

INTRODUCTION: Diseases of the periodontal tissues including gingivitis and periodontitis can affect up to 90% and 50% of the population respectively. These conditions are multifactorial inflammatory conditions involving a dysbiotic biofilm that, if left untreated, can lead to the destruction of the supporting structures of the teeth and have significant systemic implications, specifically on cardiovascular health. The elevation of inflammatory markers, particularly high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP), are strongly associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis, a key risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). HsCRP as well as other inflammatory markers can be detected in blood samples as early as 21 days after ceasing toothbrushing, due to the immune response to stagnant oral biofilm. The most effective way to ensure oral biofilm cannot remain on oral tissues, thus preventing periodontitis and reducing inflammatory CVD risk, is with good oral hygiene. The primary aim of this study is to assess whether individualised oral hygiene instruction (OHI) partnered with a digital oral health education (DOHE) package can improve the oral health of patients living with CVD. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: A total of 165 participants will be recruited from the Westmead and Blacktown Mt Druitt cardiac rehabilitation out-patient clinics into this dual centre, single blind, parallel design, randomised controlled trial. A baseline oral health clinical examination will be completed, followed by a self-report questionnaire before they are randomised in a 1:1:1 ratio into one of 3 arms as follows: individualised OHI partnered with DOHE (Group A), (Group B) DOHE only (Group B), and control/usual care (no oral health education) (Group C). Groups will have their intervention repeated at the 6-week follow-up. After completing the 12-week follow-up, Group B and Group C will receive tailored OHI. Group C will also receive the DOHE package. The primary outcome is the change in approximal plaque index score between baseline and 6-week follow up. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: The study has been approved by the Western Sydney Local Health District Human Ethics Committee 2023/ETH00516. Results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at conferences. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: ACTRN12623000449639p ANZCTR: https://www.anzctr.org.au/.

Using patients' oral photographs for oral hygiene motivation promotes periodontal health: a prospective randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this prospective, randomized, controlled, single-centered, examiner-blinded clinical trial was to evaluate the effectiveness of a personalized and visual oral health education program in addition to conventional oral hygiene education. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty-six non-smoker, right-handed participants (aged 30.34 ± 11.46 years) without clinical signs of periodontitis were randomly grouped: the intervention group (n = 28) received a personalized visualized oral health education combined with conventional oral hygiene education, and the control group (n = 28) received conventional oral hygiene education only. All participants were assessed for improved periodontal parameters (PI, GI, BOP, and PPD) at baseline, first month, and third month. RESULTS: A significant reduction (p < 0.001) was observed in PI, GI, and BOP during two follow-up sessions compared to the baseline for the two groups. No differences were found for inter-group (p > 0.05) or intra-group (p = 1) comparison of PPD. PI (p = 0.012), GI (p = 0.032), and BOP (p = 0.024) scores were significantly reduced at the third-month follow-up assessment in the intervention group compared to the control group. CONCLUSIONS: Clinical outcomes of periodontal health were significantly enhanced by the personalized and visual oral health education program applied in this study compared to the conventional oral hygiene education program. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Numerous studies reported additional interventions to the oral hygiene education program. However, we did not find any published studies investigating the role of patients' intra-oral photographs in oral care. This study's results demonstrated that a visually aided education program for oral hygiene motivation may help improve oral health. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: Registration number is "NCT06316505" and date of registration is 18/03/2024.

Effectiveness of oral health education on oral hygiene status among adult male inmates in central jail, Kolkata - an interventional study.

PURPOSE: Oral health is an integral part of general health. Different population groups have been assessed for oral health status in India, but still, many have been neglected; one such group is the prisoners. The prison population is a unique and challenging one with many health problems, including poor oral health, which may be due to lack of knowledge about good oral health practices. This study aims to assess effectiveness of oral health education on oral health knowledge, attitude and practices and oral hygiene status among the male prison inmates of central jail in Kolkata, India. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: An interventional study was done among 240 male convicts. The data was elicited using a structured proforma; oral health status was assessed by recording OHI-S index, and the severity of gingivitis was assessed by recording the gingival index. Oral health education was delivered by using audio-visual aid. Oral health knowledge, attitude, practices and oral hygiene and gingival status were reassessed among the inmates before and after dental education at the end of three and six months. FINDINGS: A significant change in oral health knowledge, attitude and practices was seen, which in turn resulted in an appreciable decrease in the mean gingival index score (1.73 ± 0.382 to 1.20 ± 0.321) and OHI-S (3.31 ± 0.815 to 2.57 ± 0.551) in all the inmates after oral health education program over the period of time. ORIGINALITY/VALUE: The oral health education with reinforcement proved to be an effective tool to instil good oral hygiene practices in the inmates.

Evaluation of the Oral Health Education Programme for Nurses using an Oral Lesion Simulator.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to investigate the usefulness of a newly developed oral simulator for nursing students' oral assessment education on oral diseases and symptoms. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The participants were first-year students (n=105) at a nursing school in Japan. Ten identical oral simulators with angular cheilitis, missing teeth, dental caries, calculus, periodontitis, hypoglossal induration, food debris, and crust formation were created by a team of dentists. After a 45-minute lecture programme for oral assessment performance with the Oral Health Assessment Tool (OHAT), the ability test with the simulators and the OHAT as well as test feedback were conducted in a 30-minute practical programme. To evaluate the effectiveness of the programmes, questionnaires and ability tests with slides of oral images were conducted at baseline and after the programme. RESULTS: Ninety-nine students (94.3%) participated in this study. The results of the ability test with the simulators and the OHAT in the practical programme showed that the correct answer rates of assessing tongue, gingiva, present teeth, and oral pain were less than 40%. Their levels of confidence, perception, and oral assessment performance were statistically significantly higher after the programmes than they were at baseline. Their level of confidence in assessing the need for dental referral had the largest increase in scores compared to the lowest scores at baseline in the nine post-programme assessment categories. CONCLUSIONS: This study identified several problems with nursing students' oral assessment skills and improvements of their oral assessment confidence, perceptions and performance.

Effectiveness of two educational interventions based on the theory of planned behavior on oral cancer self-examination in adults: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: The theory of planned behavior (TPB) is recognized as an effective theory for behavior change. The aim of the present study was to investigate the impact of two TPB-based educational interventions on oral self-examination (OSE) behavior and the related TPB constructs among adults in Tehran, Iran, in 2022. METHODS: This randomized controlled trial involved 400 healthy individuals recruited from 20 urban comprehensive health centers in the southern part of Tehran, Iran. The health centers were randomly assigned to two control (PowerPoint) and intervention (WhatsApp) groups (200 individuals in each group). In the control group (the recipient of the routine care), participants received a 20-minute lecture through a PowerPoint presentation and a pamphlet. In the intervention group (the recipient of an additional intervention alongside the routine care), participants were educated through messages and images on WhatsApp along with having monthly group discussions. Data was collected at baseline, as well as at 1- and 3-month follow-ups using a structured questionnaire. The outcomes assessed included OSE behavior and the related TPB constructs: intention, attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control. Linear and logistic generalized estimating equations (GEE) regression models were used to evaluate the impact of the interventions with STATA version 17. RESULTS: Of the total participants, 151 (37.75%) were men. The mean ± standard deviation (SD) of ages in the PowerPoint and WhatsApp groups were 39.89 ± 13.72 and 39.45 ± 13.90, respectively. OSE and the related TPB constructs showed significant differences between the groups at the 1-month post-intervention assessment. The effect of PowerPoint was more significant in the short-term (one month), while both methods showed similar effectiveness after three months, specifically in relation to OSE and the TPB constructs. At the 3-month post-intervention assessment, there were significant increases in OSE (OR = 28.63), intention (ß = 1.47), attitude (ß = 0.66), subjective norm (ß = 2.82), and perceived behavioral control (ß = 1.19) in both groups (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The present study provides evidence of the effectiveness of both educational interventions in improving OSE and the TPB constructs after three months. Therefore, both TPB-based educational methods can be recommended for designing and implementing interventions aimed at preventing oral cancer. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The trial protocol was registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT) on 04/03/2022 (registration number: IRCT20220221054086N1).

Assessing effectiveness of braille and audio-tactile performance technique in improving oral hygiene status of young adults with visual impairment.

INTRODUCTION: Young adults with Visual impairment (VI) challenge the dentists' skills and knowledge due to a higher risk of developing oral diseases due to difficulty in attaining good oral hygiene (OH). AIMS: To assess the effectiveness of ATP (Audio-Tactile Performance) technique and braille versus braille alone in improving OH status of young adults with VI. METHODS AND MATERIAL: A parallel arm, randomized controlled trial was conducted among 70 young adults with VI. Participants were randomly allocated to either test group (braille combined with ATP) or control group (braille alone). A pre-validated braille questionnaire was used to obtain the baseline data followed by clinical examination. OH status assessment was recorded through Gingival Index (GI) and Plaque Index (PI) proforma followed by a thorough ultrasonic oral prophylaxis. Periodic reinforcement was carried out on the 7th day, after 1 month and 3 months. The outcomes were assessed at the end of 3rd and 6th month. RESULTS: There was an increase in the knowledge scores after 3 and 6 months and attitude scores, GI scores and PI scores after 6 months in the test group compared to the control group and this difference was found to be statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: The findings of this study showed that a combination of ATP and braille proved to be more effective than braille alone in improving the knowledge and OH status of young adults with VI.

Comparative evaluation of "Tell-Tell-Tell," "Ask-Tell-Ask," and "Teach back" communication techniques on oral health education among 12-13-year-old children - An educational intervention trial.

Background: Effective communication with children can improve their understanding and aid in complying with oral hygiene instructions. Aim: The aim is to compare the retentiveness of oral hygiene instructions in children educated using three communication techniques. Methodology: One hundred and twenty children in the age range of 12-13 years were included in the study. Baseline awareness of oral hygiene maintenance was assessed using a questionnaire. Twenty children were randomly assigned to each group: Tell-Tell-Tell, Ask-Tell-Ask, Teach-back, and information provided. Knowledge was reassessed after a week; data were tabulated and assessed statistically. Results: There were no statistically significant differences in the baseline data among the groups (P > 0.05). Regardless of the group, there was an improvement in knowledge regarding the frequency and timing of brushing as well as the cause of dental caries after the intervention. However, children in Ask-Tell-Ask and Teach back showed significant improvement over Tell-Tell-Tell (P ≤ 0.01). Conclusion: Communication strategies, such as Ask-Tell-Ask and Teach back, which have a strategy to involve children, have been shown to be superior over Tell-Tell-Tell.

Efectividad del programa educativo "Sonrisas desde el vientre". Hogar Materno Isabel María de Valdivia en Sancti Spíritus / Effectiveness of the educational program " Smiles from the womb". Isabel María de Valdivia Maternity Home in Sancti Spíritus

Fundamentación: En el período de gestación el organismo de la mujer sufre modificaciones, transformaciones fisiológicas y psicológicas, además de cambios en los tejidos bucales y cambios de conducta que pueden iniciar enfermedades bucodentales o agravar las ya establecidas. Objetivo: Evaluar la efectividad del programa educativo "Sonrisas desde el vientre" en embarazadas del Hogar Materno Isabel María de Valdivia en Sancti Spíritus. Metodología: Se realizó un estudio preexperimental, con diseño antes y después en el período de enero a junio del 2022, la población estuvo constituida por 20 embarazadas ingresadas en el Hogar Materno Isabel María de Valdivia en Sancti Spíritus. Se utilizaron métodos del nivel teórico, empírico (encuesta) y estadísticos. Se midió la variable conocimiento sobre salud bucodental. Resultados: Los conocimientos antes de la aplicación de programa educativo eran insuficientes (65 %), después de aplicado el programa educativo el 75 % de las embarazadas presentó conocimientos suficientes. Conclusiones: Al culminar la implementación del programa educativo "Sonrisas desde el vientre", se logró un nivel de conocimiento suficiente sobre salud bucodental en la tercera parte de las embarazadas de este hogar materno.

Background: During pregnancy, the women's body goes through many changes, physiological and psychological transformations, as well as changes in the oral cavity tissues and behavioral changes that may initiate oral diseases or aggravate the stablished ones. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of the educational program "Smile from the Womb" among pregnant women at the Isabel María de Valdivia Maternity Home in Sancti Spíritus. Methodology: A pre-experimental study with a before and after design was conducted from January to June 2022, the population consisted of 20 pregnant women hospitalized at Isabel María de Valdivia Maternity Home in Sancti Spíritus. Theoretical, empirical (survey) and statistical methods were used. The variable oral health knowledge was measured. Results: Before applying the educational program the knowledge was insufficient (65%), after applying the educational program 75% of pregnant women showed sufficient knowledge. Conclusions: By the end of the "Smile from the Womb" educational program, one third of the pregnant women in this maternity home had achieved a sufficient level of knowledge about oral and dental health.

The effectiveness of behaviour change interventions delivered by non-dental health workers in promoting children's oral health: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: Dental caries is the most common preventable childhood condition. Non-dental professionals and health workers are often well placed to support parents in adopting positive oral health behaviours for their children. The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of behaviour change interventions and their individual component behaviour change techniques (BCTs), that were delivered by non-dental professionals and health workers. METHODS: A systematic search of Ovid MEDLINE, PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, TRoPHI and PROQUEST from inception until March 2021 was conducted. Randomised controlled trials and quasi-experimental studies for improving oral health outcomes in children were included. Quality assessment was carried out using Cochrane Risk of Bias tool and ROBINS-I tool. Publication bias was assessed using funnel plots and Egger's regression intercept. Effect sizes were estimated as standardised mean difference (SMD) and odds ratio/risk ratio for proportions. Meta-analyses were performed for studies reporting mean decayed, missing, filled surfaces (dmfs) and mean decayed, missing, filled, teeth (dmft) indices. Behaviour change technique coding was performed using behaviour change technique taxonomy v1 (BCTTv1). RESULTS: Out of the 9,101 records retrieved, 36 studies were included with 28 showing a significant effect either in clinical and/or behavioural/knowledge outcomes. Most studies (n = 21) were of poor methodological quality. The pooled SMD for caries experience showed statistically significant result for caries prevention at surface level -0.15 (95% CI -0.25, -0.04) and at the tooth level -0.24 (95% CI -0.42, -0.07). In 28 effective interventions, 27 individual BCTs were identified and the most frequently used were: "Instructions on how to perform the behaviour" and "Information about health consequences". CONCLUSION: There is low quality of evidence suggesting non-dental professionals and health workers may help improve oral health outcomes for children. To confirm these findings, further high-quality studies incorporating a variety of BCTs in their interventions for adoption of good oral health behaviours are needed.

A tactile graphic book with Braille and audio use improved plaque score and toothbrushing performance in visually impaired individuals.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of embossed tactile graphic books and Braille with an audio file for oral health education for visually impaired individuals. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty visually impaired individuals (9-16 years old) were matched and randomly assigned into two groups. The education was provided using an audio file and practicing toothbrushing with teachers' hands-on assistance for the audio/hands-on (A/HO) group and the tactile graphic book with audio and teacher supervision (ATB/TS) group. The oral health instruction was performed three times, once a week every 2 weeks, transitioning to a self-study session based on the group's method once a week for 4 weeks. Plaque score, brushing performance, and oral health knowledge were evaluated. Statistical analysis was performed using the Mann-Whitney U and Friedman post hoc test. RESULTS: A significant improvement was found in both groups at week 6 of the intervention. However, the ATB/TS group had a significantly higher score than the A/HO group in the task analysis of tooth brushing step score (p-value < 0.001), PHP score (p-value = 0.001), and oral hygiene knowledge score (p-value < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Tactile graphic books and Braille with an audio file is an effective medium for the oral health education of visually impaired individuals.

Educação em saúde bucal em uma pré-escola: planejamento estratégico para o desenvolvimento de atividades lúdicas / Oral health education in pre-school: strategic planning for the development of ludic activities

Trata-se de um relato de experiência, que descreve, sob estratégia narrativo-argumentativa, as significâncias político-pedagógicas atreladas ao planejamento estratégico de ações de educação em saúde bucal vivenciadas em um ambiente escolar e experimentadas por acadêmicos estagiários de um curso de Odontologia. Após análise detalhada, algumas inferências se destacaram: o reconhecimento do ambiente escolar como território fértil para o desenvolvimento de ações promotoras de saúde; a efetividade do instrumento "TPC" (Teorizar-Praticar-Criticar) no direcionamento dos acadêmicos estagiários no planejamento estratégico de atividades de educação em saúde bucal; a importância de se disseminar, em espaços científicos, os aprendizados advindos de experimentações práticas de estágios.

This is a report on an experience that describes, under a narrative-argumentative strategy, the political-pedagogical significance linked to the strategic planning of oral health education actions experienced in a school environment and experienced by university trainees from a Dentistry course. After a detailed analysis, some inferences were observed: the recognition of the school environment as a fertile territory for the development of health-promoting actions; the effectiveness of the "TPC" (Theorize-Practice-Criticize) instrument in directing university trainees in the strategic planning of oral health education activities; the importance of disseminating, in scientific spaces, the learning from practical experimentation during internships.

Necesidades educativas sobre salud bucodental en el grado prescolar / Educational needs related to oral health in the preschool grade

Introducción: La caries dental y la enfermedad periodontal son las enfermedades bucodentales más prevalentes, con una tendencia al aumento de las maloclusiones. Se considera la promoción de salud como un proceso educativo a través del cual la comunidad logra ejercer control de su salud. Objetivo: Identificar las necesidades educativas sobre salud bucodental en el grado prescolar, en Sagua la Grande, Villa Clara, durante el curso escolar 2017-2018. Método: Investigación descriptiva transversal en Sagua la Grande, durante el curso 2017-2018. La población quedó constituida por 326 niños, 24 docentes y 326 familias. La variable estudiada fue necesidades educativas sobre salud bucodental en el grado preescolar. Resultados: Se evidenció que no se realizan acciones educativas sobre salud bucodental. No existen proyectos ni un programa de capacitación sobre salud bucodental para los docentes que la sustente. No es concebida la salud bucal dentro del sistema de trabajo metodológico del sector. No se analizan contenidos de salud bucodental en consejos de dirección y preparaciones metodológicas Los docentes realizan escasas acciones educativas sobre salud bucodental. El nivel de conocimientos sobre salud bucodental fue evaluado de mal en los niños (74,23 por ciento), en docentes (41,67 por ciento) y familias (47,24 por ciento). Conclusiones: Se evidenció que no se realizan acciones educativas sobre salud bucodental y predominó el nivel de conocimientos sobre salud bucodental evaluado de mal en niños, docentes y familias(AU)

Introduction: Dental caries and periodontal disease are the most prevalent oral conditions, with a tendency to an increase in malocclusions. Health promotion is considered to be an educational process by which the community gains control of their health. Objective: Identify the educational needs related to oral health in the preschool grade. Method: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in Sagua la Grande during the school year 2017-2018. The study population was 326 children, 24 teachers and 326 families. The variable analyzed was educational needs related to oral health in the preschool grade. Results: It was found that educational actions related to oral health are not performed, nor is there an oral health training program for teachers or projects supporting it. Oral health is not included in the system of methodological work for the sector. Oral health contents are not discussed in management meetings or methodological preparation sessions. Teachers conduct a scant number of oral health educational actions. Knowledge about oral health was evaluated as poor in 74.23 percent of the children, 41.67 percent of the teachers and 47.24 percent of the families. Conclusions: It was found that oral health educational actions are not performed and knowledge about oral health is poor among children, teachers and families(AU)

Early childhood oral health promotion for First Nations and Métis communities and caregivers in Manitoba. / Promotion de la santé buccodentaire des jeunes enfants auprès des collectivités et des fournisseurs de soins des Premières Nations et des Métis du Manitoba.

INTRODUCTION: Early childhood caries is a public health concern, and the considerable burden exhibited by Indigenous children highlights the oral health inequities across populations in Canada. Barriers include lack of access to oral health care and lack of culturally appropriate oral health promotion. The purpose of this study was to determine where and how First Nations and Métis parents, caregivers and community members learn about caring for young children's oral health, and what ideas and suggestions they have on how to disseminate information and promote early childhood oral health (ECOH) in Indigenous communities. METHODS: Sharing circles and focus groups engaged eight groups of purposively sampled participants (n = 59) in four communities in Manitoba. A grounded theory approach guided thematic analysis of audiorecorded and transcribed data. RESULTS: Participants said that they learned about oral health from parents, caregivers and friends, primary care providers, prenatal programs, schools and online. Some used traditional medicines. Participants recommended sharing culturally appropriate information through community and prenatal programs and workshops; schools and day care centres; posters, mailed pamphlets and phone communication (calls and text messages) to parents and caregivers, and via social media. Distributing enticing and interactive oral hygiene products that appeal to children was recommended as a way to encourage good oral hygiene. CONCLUSION: Evidence-based oral health information and resources tailored to First Nations and Métis communities could, if strategically provided, reach more families and shift the current trajectory for ECOH.

Relationship Between Socio-Demographic Profile, Parity and Dental Caries Among a Group of Nursing Mothers in South East, Nigeria

ABSTRACT Objective: To determine the prevalence and risk indicators of caries among nursing mothers in a tertiary hospital. Material and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study of 408 nursing mothers aged 15 to 52 years who brought their children for immunization in a tertiary hospital in Enugu, Nigeria. Data on socio-demographic profile, parity, dental visits were collected. The presence of dental caries was recorded using the World Health Organization criteria. Results: The prevalence of dental caries was 11.0%, and the mean DMFT was 0.18. There was a statistically significant association between level of education (p<0.001), past dental visit (p<0.001) and the occurrence of dental caries. Caries was more prevalent in the mandibular teeth than the maxillary teeth. The left mandibular first and second permanent molars had the highest occurrence of dental caries. Missing (M) component of the DMFT index was highest and the care index was low. The significant predictors of caries among nursing mothers were fair oral hygiene and having below tertiary education. Conclusion: The prevalence of caries and the care index were both low in this study population. The significant predictors of dental caries were a tertiary level of education and poor oral hygiene. Incorporating oral health education during postnatal care can help reduce dental caries' occurrence and complications among nursing mothers in the study population.

Intervención educativa para la gingivitis crónica en adolescentes del Consultorio Médico de la Familia 10. Área Norte. Sancti Spíritus / Educational intervention on chronic gingivitis in adolescents at the North Area doctor´s office 10 in Sancti Spíritus

RESUMEN Fundamento: La gingivitis crónica constituye un problema de salud bucal en los adolescentes, relacionado con los escasos conocimientos y factores de riesgo presentes. Objetivo: Aplicar la intervención educativa para modificar el nivel de conocimientos de los adolescentes sobre gingivitis crónica del CMF 10 de Sancti Spíritus. Metodología: Se realizó un estudio cuasi-experimental, con diseño de antes y después en el período de septiembre 2018 a febrero del 2019, la población fueron 196 adolescentes y la muestra 61 que presentaron gingivitis crónica. Las variables utilizadas: conocimientos sobre prevención de gingivitis, higiene bucal y presencia de gravedad de la gingivitis, los métodos: del nivel teórico, empírico (encuesta, entrevista, determinación de la IHBS, Índice Gingival de Löe y Silness y de la estadística descriptiva. Resultados: Los conocimientos antes de la intervención eran insuficientes (40.8 %), la gravedad de la enfermedad el 50.8 % presentaba gingivitis moderada y el 47.5 % mala higiene bucal; después de la intervención el 90.1 % tenía conocimientos suficientes, el 73.7 % sin alteración en las encías y 83.6 % buena higiene. Conclusiones: La intervención educativa logró elevar los conocimientos, disminuir la gravedad de la gingivitis y mejorar la higiene bucal de los adolescentes.

ABSTRACT Background: Chronic gingivitis is an oral health problem in adolescents, related to poor knowledge and risk factors. Objective: To apply educational intervention to modify the adolescents' level of knowledge about chronic gingivitis at the CMF 10 in Sancti Spíritus. Methodology: A quasi-experimental study was conducted, with a before and after design from September 2018 to February 2019, the population consisted of 196, and the sample of 61 adolescents who presented chronic gingivitis. The variables used: knowledge about gingivitis prevention, oral hygiene and presence of gingivitis´ severity, methods: theoretical and empirical level (survey, interview, determination of the IHBS, Silness y Löe Gingival Index and descriptive statistics. Results: The knowledge before the intervention was insufficient (40.8 %), severity of the disease 50.8 % presented moderate gingivitis and 47.5 % bad oral hygiene; after the intervention 90.1 % had sufficient knowledge, 73.7 % without any alteration in the gums and 83.6 % good hygiene. Conclusions: The educational intervention managed to increase knowledge, decrease severity of gingivitis and improve oral hygiene of adolescents.

Fundamentos teóricos de la preparación del estudiante de Estomatología en función de la educación para la salud bucal periodontal / Theoretical foundations of the dentistry students preparation in terms of education for the periodontal oral health

RESUMEN Introducción: La aspiración de egresar un estomatólogo general suficientemente preparado para resolver los problemas de salud bucal periodontal más generales y prevalentes es una exigencia social que se revela en el actual plan de estudio de la carrera de Estomatología. Objetivo: Elaborar unos referentes teóricos de la preparación del estudiante de Estomatología en función de la educación para la salud bucal periodontal. Método: De enero a julio de 2020, en la Facultad de Estomatología de la Universidad de Ciencias Médicas Guantánamo se realizó una revisión narrativa sobre el tema a través de una búsqueda en bases de datos electrónicas (Biblioteca Virtual en Salud, LILACS, PubMed, SciELO, REDALYC, Scopus). Se sistematizaron referentes teóricos que sustentan la preparación del estudiante de Estomatología en función de la educación para la salud bucal periodontal. Conclusiones: Se evidencia la necesidad de esta preparación dada su implicación en el modo de actuación profesional para una Atención Bucal Periodontal Integral. Las bases para esta finalidad emergen de la conjugación armoniosa de referentes filosóficos, sociológicos, legales, psicológicos, pedagógicos y didácticos en función de la práctica de la profesión.

ABSTRACT Introduction: The aim to graduate a general dentist with a high standard in knowledge to solve the most general and prevalent periodontal oral health issues is a social demand that is revealed in the current study program of dentistry major. Objective: To elaborate some theoretical references concerning dentistry student preparation in terms of education for periodontal oral health. Method: From January to July 2020, at the Facultad de Estomatología in the Universidad de Ciencias Médicas Guantanamo, a narrative review on the subject was carried out through a search in electronic databases (Virtual Health Library, LILACS, PubMed, SciELO, REDALYC, Scopus). It was systematized all the theoretical references that support the preparation of the dentistry students in terms of education for periodontal oral health. Conclusions: It is evident the necessity of this type of training due to its implication in the way to the best professional performance for an integral oral care. The foundations for achieving this goal emerge from the harmonious conjugation of philosophical, sociological, legal, psychological, pedagogical and didactic referents, in accordance to the practice of the profession.

Programa de Salud Bucodental en escolares de la Comunidad del Bajo Boulogne / Oral Health Program in children from Bajo Boulogne Community

Las afecciones bucodentales constituyen un problema de salud pública por su alta prevalencia y su fuerte impacto individual y colectivo en términos de dolor, malestar y discapacidad social y funcional. El Centro de Medicina Familiar y Comunitaria San Pantaleón, ubicado en la provincia de Buenos Aires, brinda asistencia sanitaria gratuita a la comunidad. Un relevamiento documentó que el 97% de los concurrentes presentaba caries y no se lavaban los dientes por falta de cepillo y pasta dental. Se decidió llevar adelante un programa de promoción de la salud bucodental. El objetivo fue evaluar su implementación; que incluyó: a) rastreo de caries y problemas odontológicos; b) coordinación interinstitucional; c) entrega de cepillos y pasta dental; d) intervención educativa; e) extensión comunitaria. Participaron en forma irregular 120 niñas, niños y adolescentes entre 5 y 18 años del Centro de Apoyo Escolar Fundación Bajo Boulogne. Se realizaron dos encuentros educativos y entrega de cepillos y pasta dental. En la revisión odontológica inicial sobre 60 participantes se detectaron caries en 43 (71,6%), que fueron derivados para tratamiento odontológico, pero concurrieron solo 26 (60,4%). El conocimiento sobre salud bucodental mostró cambios entre los más pequeños luego de las intervenciones educativas. Se logró implementar el programa, cumplimentando las actividades propuestas. Pero surgieron barreras que dificultaron la cobertura. En cuanto a la eficacia de la intervención educativa, no se logró mostrar cambios en el conocimiento. Se consiguió la detección oportuna, la incorporación de hábitos como el cepillado dentro de la institución educativa, la articulación para mejorar el acceso a la atención y la vinculación entre los diferentes actores comunitarios. (AU)

Oral disorders are a public health problem due to their high prevalence and their strong individual and collective impact in terms of pain, discomfort, and social and functional disability. The San Pantaleón Family and Community Medicine Center, located in the province of Buenos Aires, provides free healthcare to the community. A survey documented that 97% of those present had cavities and did not brush their teeth due to a lack of brush and toothpaste. It was decided to carry out an oral health promotion program. The objective was to evaluate its implementation; which included: a) tracking of caries and dental problems; b) inter-institutional coordination; c) delivery of brushes and toothpaste; d) educational intervention; e) community extension. 120 girls and boys and adolescents between 5 and 18 years of age from the Bajo Boulogne Foundation School Support Center irregularly participated. Two educational meetings were held, handing out brushes and toothpaste. In the initial dental review of 60 participants, caries was detected in 43 (71.6%), who were referred for dental treatment, with only 26 (60.4%) concurring. Oral health knowledge showed changes among the youngest after educational interventions. It was possible to implement the program, completing the proposed activities. Barriers arose that made coverage difficult. Regarding the effectiveness of the educational intervention, it was not possible to show changes in knowledge. Timely detection was achieved, the incorporation of habits such as brushing within the educational institution, articulation to improve access to care and the link between the different community actors. (AU)

Benefits of Oral Health Education at Women, Infant, and Children (WIC) Clinic Visits: Assessments of Parent's Oral Health Beliefs, Behaviors and Dental Access in O'ahu, Hawai'i.

Improving oral health outcomes in Hawai'i for children and families remains a high priority. Children in the state are leading the nation with the highest caries rates, while women before, during, and after pregnancy are failing to receive regular and necessary dental care resulting in poor health outcomes. To answer for this need, an educational intervention was conducted among families enrolled in the Kapi'olani Medical Center for Women and Children's Women, Infant, and Children program (WIC) in O'ahu. The project included the following activities: (1) identification the oral health beliefs and behaviors of families, (2) providing oral health education to families, and (3) reassessing beliefs and behaviors in 3-6 months to document the impact of theeducation session. Participants consisted of 81 families resulting in the data on 176 children and 4 pregnant women. Of the 81 families, 40 representing84 children completed the follow-up oral health questionnaire. Results of the assessment and education demonstrated a positive impact on the family's oral health behaviors. Parents were 6.61 times as likely to report using fluoride toothpaste in the follow-up visit compared to their initial visit (95% confidence interval [CI] = 3.12-14.00). Additionally, statistically significant changes were noted in the frequency of children's daily tooth brushing (odds ratio [OR] = 2.15, 95% CI = 1.33-3.46), as well as in the incidence of children receiving fluoride varnish application over time (OR = 2.66, 95% CI = 1.50-4.73). These results provide further evidence that initiating a simple educational intervention can have a positive impact on oral health behaviors in groups that are at highest risk for developing dental disease in Hawai'i.

Hygienic and nutritional habits in dental caries prevention in 5-year-old children from Biala Podlaska.

BACKGROUND: Preschool children are particularly susceptible to dental caries development. Due to the fact that deciduous teeth are less mineralised, they are more likely to be affected by this condition. Therefore, preschool age is a significant period in shaping positive health-oriented attitudes regarding dental caries prevention. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to analyse hygienic and nutritional habits in children aged 5 from Biala Podlaska in the context of dental caries prevention. MATERIAL AND METHOD: The study included 454 preschool children (251 boys and 203 girls) from Biala Podlaska. Their hygienic and nutritional habits were examined with a diagnostic survey using the authors' own anonymous questionnaire. Mean consumption of nutrients (calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D) was estimated on the basis of average daily consumption calculated as a mean from three 24-hour interviews (conducted by the authors in a kindergarten or at children's houses). A nutritional value of a daily portion was calculated with the use of "Dieta 5.0" software (National Food and Nutrition Institute). RESULTS: Research results revealed that in the case of only one in three children, parents began toothbrushing within the first year of a child's life. Approximately 90% of preschool children brushed their teeth at least twice a day. Half of the children under examination brushed their teeth for 1-2 minutes usually with a traditional toothbrush. Toothbrushing was supervised by 62.5% of the boys' parents and 38.9% of the girls' parents (p<0.05). Almost 66% of the parents took their children to a dentist for regular (once or twice a year) dental check-ups. Analyses of daily food rations revealed insufficient amounts of calcium (25%) and vitamin D (over 80%). Moreover, an excessive intake of phosphorus (twice as high as the norm) was noted. CONCLUSIONS: Developing appropriate hygienic and nutritional habits in children is an indispensable element in the prevention of lifestyle diseases, including dental caries.