Pilot study of an innovative Oral Health Education Program

Background: All Israeli schoolchildren (age 5-14) are entitled to three hours of oral health education, a basic dental screening and the provision of a toothbrush and toothpaste. However, oral health education has very modest success. Aims: To assess the changes in knowledge, attitudes and behaviors in oral health for both parents and kindergarten age children as a result of an innovative oral health education program. Methods: Three kindergartens in the Bet El municipality were selected for the study. A spiral program was created in 2010, designed to give the pupils a uniform high-level educational experience from both health and pedagogical perspectives, with parental and pupil involvement. After each lesson a detailed letter was given to the parents accompanied by handouts with activities for the pupils. The program addresses the common risk factors of dental caries, focusing on health and health promotion. Assessment will be carried out via a pre and approximately two months post trial questionnaire to both parents and children. Results: Pre-trial: The parent questionnaire was distributed by and returned to the kindergarten teachers. The child questionnaire was completed by a personal interview with each child. The questionnaires were brief and focused on oral health knowledge, attitudes and behaviors. They were limited due to their brevity, but nevertheless managed to give a sufficiently broad outline. The material for the three hours was well received, with the children showing interest and actively participating. The novel presentation mode was very successful, and positive informal feedback was received. Conclusions: The pilot showed promising signs that the new program is appropriate for kindergarten children in Bet El. The real test however is whether the program has a long term influence on oral health.