Oral Health Status at Two Elementary Schools: a 10-year Result

Objectives: Public awareness on the importance of good oral hygiene and on its impact on general health is on the rise. The aim of the present study was to assess the oral health status of elementary school children attending two elementary schools in Mainz over an observation period of 10 years. Methods: The study documented caries prevalence and treatment needs of 376 elementary school children (ages: 5-12) in the context of dental group prophylaxis. A full dental examination was undertaken with a special focus on orthodontic aspects. The objective was to track caries and malocclusion frequency as well as relevant habits. Information on age, dietary and drinking habits as well as teeth cleaning methods and frequency was gathered by means of an especially designed questionnaire. Oral hygiene (API), caries (DMT/dmt), fissure sealant, filling materials, maldentition and gingival health were evaluated by means of clinical examination. Results: The 10-year observation period (from 1997/1998 to 2007/2008) was marked by an overall improvement in oral health. In 1997/1998 only 31% of the observed children had a natural-healthy dentition, in 2007/2008 this figure had increased to 65%. Caries occurrence decreased by half, from 61% to 34% and fissure sealant use by family dentists increased from 21% to 49%. Orthodontic treatment was administered at an increasingly early stage. The study also indicated a significant reduction in children's consumption of sugary sweets and soft drinks. Conclusion: The study showed a clear improvement in oral health and reinforced awareness. Parent support and engagement was an essential factor in the observed improvement of oral health.