bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Suitability of Krathwohl's affective taxonomy for evaluating patient attitudes to dental care
Authors: Syrjälä Anna‐Maija H. , Knuuttila Matti L.E. , Syrjälä Leena K.
Published: May 2006

Abstract The aims were to develop a questionnaire for dental health education based on Krathwohl's taxonomy, which measures the affective domain, and to examine correlations between the attitude determined by this questionnaire and sex, age, education, and dental behavior. The material consisted of young and middle‐aged persons, 206 women and 183 men, visiting two occupational health centers in Oulu. The questionnaire comprised four questions under each of three headings: preventive dentistry, gingivitis, and dental check‐up. The questions under each heading were formulated to correspond to given levels in Krathwohl's taxonomy. Factor analysis showed the questionnaire to be valid and suitable for studying different levels of the affective domain. Krathwohl's taxonomy includes the notion of cumulative adoption of a value, and Guttman scaling was used to show the cumulativeness of the scales. Groups of persons with the most and least positive attitudes were identified, 83% of the patients with the most positive attitude having visited a dentist within a year, whereas 65% of those with the least positive attitude had last done so more than 2 yr earlier. The women had a more positive attitude than the men, but education was not a decisive factor in determining attitude. All the persons with the most positive attitude were over 25 yr old. It was concluded that it was possible to formulate a questionnaire on the basis of Krathwohl's taxonomy which would measure attitudes towards dental care and that it is possible to use this questionnaire in practical situations in order to help the dentist to instruct his patients.
Clinical pilot study on new dental filling materials and preparation procedures in developing countries
Authors: Smith Albert J. E. , Chimimba Peter D. , Kalf‐Scholte Sonja , Bouma Jelte
Published: May 2006

Abstract Conservative dentistry in developing countries often poses a problem because of lack of expensive dental equipment. This survey was undertaken to test two more appropriate filling materials in vivo. In 94 secondary school students (in Mzuzu, Malawi) with two or more cavities, one cavity was prepared in the conventional way using drilling equipment and then filled with amalgam, and one cavity was prepared using hand instruments only and filled with either cermet ionomer or “miracle mix”. Models of the filled teeth (99 amalgam. 53 “miracle mix”, 54 cermet ionomer; all of them Class 1) were made and evaluated by three examiners after 6 months and after 1 yr. The fillings were given a score on a four‐point scale. One year later all types of filling materials had significantly decreased in quality, but only five fillings (one amalgam, one “miracle mix”, and three cermet ionomer) needed replacement. Compared to the amalgam filling in the same mouth, more cermet ionomer and “miracle mix” fillings performed poorly, but these differences were not statistically significant after 1 yr. Both cermet ionomer and “miracle mix” are very promising alternatives for Class I tooth cavities in areas without dental equipment.
Prevalence of dental caries in 7–13‐yr‐old children in Morogoro District, Tanzania, in 1984, 1986, and 1988
Authors: Frencken J. E. , Truin G.‐J. , van't Hof M. A. , König K. G. , Mabelya L. , Mulder J. , Ruiken H. M. H. M.
Published: May 2006

Abstract A 4‐yr mixed‐longitudinal study to determine the prevalence of caries in 7–13‐yr‐old Tanzanian children was started in 1984. The parameters considered were age, locality, Socio‐economic Status, and sex. Locality was composed of urban (Morogoro town), rural (Morogoro District), and rural areas in the District with an average fluoride level of 0.5 ppm or more in all drinking water present. SES was established based on the occupation of the father or mother and on housing conditions. Overall, the reproducibility of the dental conditions studied (D2MT/S and D3MT/S) was high, with lower scores for the conditions including early enamel lesions (D2MT/S). The reproducibility of the SES scoring system was high (χ= 0.96 and χ= 0.90), but the association over the 2 yr of measurement (1984 and 1988) was weak (r = 0.50). There were no restorations found. The percentage of children with caries increased with increasing age from 12–17% at age 7 to 37% at age 13. The statistical tests (ANOVA) revealed an age effect for all conditions studied in 1984, 1986, and 1988 and a locality effect in 1988 only. The mean D3MT‐scores varied between 0.15 and 0.24 at age 7 to 0.76 at age 13, while the mean D3MS‐scores varied between 0.27 and 0.31 at age 7 to 1.18 at age 13. In general, the caries prevalence observed was low. Children living in naturally fluoridated rural areas had significantly lower caries scores than children in non‐fluoridated areas.
Dental caries status and treatment needs of the permanent dentition of 6–12‐year‐olds in Hong Kong
Authors: Lo Edward C. M. , Evans R. Wendell , Lind O. Preben
Published: May 2006

Abstract An oral health survey was conducted in 1986 on a representative sample of primary school children in Hong Kong. 1483 Chinese children of both sexes, aged 6–12 yr, attending 56 primary schools were surveyed. The DMFT index for the 6‐yr‐olds was 0.1, and for the 12‐yr‐olds it was 1.5. Forty percent of the 12‐yr‐olds were clinically caries‐free. The permanent molars constituted 90% of the total caries experience of the 12‐yr‐olds. Over 90% of the caries lesions were found in pits and fissures. The dental caries treatment need in the permanent dentition was low and of the simple type. A great reduction in the dental caries experience of the permanent dentition of children has occurred since the introduction of water fluoridation 25 yr ago. In addition to treatment care, preventive measures should be provided by the School Dental Care Service for children with a high caries risk.
Patients' complaints and satisfaction 5 years after complete denture treatment
Authors: Kalk Warner , de Baat Cees
Published: May 2006

Abstract This study is based on an evaluation of patients' opinions of their dentures by means of a questionnaire. The patients had been provided with complete dentures at a university clinic. Of the original sample (n= 139) a test group of 92 patients remained available for the actual study 5 yr after treatment. The replies in the questionnaire were subjected to statistical processing and interpretation. Six clusters could be defined and these were introduced as “scales” representing the patients' score on a specific type of complaint. Apart from the six scales a score was achieved for each patient's overall satisfaction. The correlations between the various scales were calculated with the aid of a computer program. Finally, cross‐tabulation was used to see if any significant (inter)correlations could be proved between complaints, satisfaction, and some of the patients' social data. It could be concluded that a correlation exists between complaints of pain and of functional aspects on the one hand and vague complaints on the other hand. There is also a correlation between complaints of looseness of the maxillary denture and complaints about aesthetic factors. Well‐fitting and well‐functioning dentures, absence of pain, and a socially acceptable appearance contribute much to the patients' satisfaction with dentures. Social variables such as type of insurance (public or private) and marital status influence denture appreciation to a certain extent.
Roentgenological arthrosis of the hand in dentists with reference to manual function
Authors: Lehto Tero Uolevi , Rönnemaa Tapani , Aalto Teuvo , Helenius Hans Ylermi Matias
Published: May 2006

Abstract Arthrosis of the hand was studied in 136 dentists 33–69 yr of age on a joint‐by‐joint basis. A random sample of 940 persons of similar age from the general population served as controls. The prevalence of arthrosis was significantly higher in male than female dentists. Male dentists tended to have a higher and female dentists a similar prevalence of arthrosis as compared to the respective controls. The proportion of arthrotic distal interphalangeal (DIP) joints of all arthrotic joints of the hands was in both male and female dentists greater than that in controls, especially below the age 50, suggesting that arthrosis of the DIP joints of fingers develops earlier in dentists than in controls. This might result from the extensive use of the precision grip in dentistry. Arthrosis of the DIP joint of the index finger was not associated with the pinch power between the thumb and index finger, indicating good preservation of manual function in spite of increasing degenerative changes in hand joints with advancing age.
Caries: a problem in an overdenture population
Authors: Ettinger Ronald L. , Jakobsen Jane
Published: May 2006

AbstractA series of 254 patients who had their overdentures constructed at a University clinic from 1973 to 1985 were followed longitudinally. This paper reports on the caries experience in the abutment teeth of these patients. The mean age of the patients at the time of insertion of the dentures was 58.6 yr. The overall rate for new caries was 6.5% of the abutment teeth per year. The highest rate for the maxilla was 15.4%, which occurred during the 5th yr, and in the mandible it was 11.0%, which occurred in the 4th yr. A regression model was developed to profile individuals susceptible to caries. The Logistic Regression model identified a list of predictor variables which included frequency of brushing, use of home fluoride, and disease and drug effect. However, discriminant function analysis showed that although specificity was very high (98.5%), sensitivity was very low (7.9%). Therefore, this model was unable to predict persons who would be at high risk for caries.
A case study in contesting the conventional wisdom: school‐based fluoride mouthrinse programs in the USA
Authors: Disney Judith A. , Bohannan Harry M. , Klein Stephen P. , Bell Robert M.
Published: May 2006

Abstract This paper presents the events surrounding the dissemination of the results of a major preventive dentistry demonstration program designed and conducted to provide evidence of the effectiveness and actual costs of a combination of commonly used preventive procedures. It then reviews the controversy provoked when the results of that program were counter to the conventional wisdom of the day, prevailing national policy, and public health practice. An analysis of possible reasons for this reaction follows. The paper concludes with some observations about how such a situation might be approached to minimize similar controversy in the future.
Distribution of dental health behaviors in Nordic schoolchildren
Authors: Rise Jostein , Haugejorden Ola , Wold Bente , Aarö Leif E.
Published: May 2006

Abstract The present study was part of the project “Health Behavior in Schoolchildren. A WHO Cross National Survey”. The distribution of eight dental health behaviors among Finnish. Norwegian, and Swedish schoolchildren aged 11. 13. and 15 yr was studied separately for boys and girls. The sample size approximated 3000 individuals for each country, and the samples are considered to be representative for whole countries. The distinction between individual and collective behavior was empirically supported in this study. Thus collective behaviors (supervised fluoride rinsing and distribution of fluoride tablets) did not vary according to sex but declined with increasing age. On the other hand, individual behaviors varied according to sex and tended to increase in frequency with increasing age. The levels of the studied dental health behaviors were different among the three countries. This may be related to country‐specific preventive policies as well as social and cultural norms.
Results after 1 year of non‐operative occlusal caries treatment of erupting permanent first molars
Authors: Carvalho Joana Christina , Ekstrand Kim Rud , Thylstrup Anders
Published: May 2006

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate a treatment program designed to control occlusal caries on the basis of intensive patient education and professional tooth cleaning. The sample consisted of 56 6–8‐yr‐old children with their permanent right first molars in different stages of eruption. Data from the program were compared with previous data recorded in a similar sample of children. After 1 yr the majority of children in the study group had their permanent right first molars in full occlusion. A significant decrease of surfaces with easily detectable plaque and an increase of surfaces without plaque was observed. The proportion of arrested lesions increased and active enamel lesions decreased. Fissure sealing was only needed in two teeth in contrast to more than 2/3 of molars in a comparable sample of children. The program proved to be an efficient alternative to fissure scaling in preventing occlusal caries in erupting teeth.
Anticalculus effect of a dentifrice containing 0.5% zinc citrate trihydrate
Authors: Segreto Vincent A. , Collins Edwin M. , D'Agostino Ralph , Cancro Lewis P. , Pfeifer John , Gilbert Robert J.
Published: May 2006

Abstract A double‐blind 3‐month anticalculus clinical study was conducted to determine the magnitude of the antitartar effect to be derived from use of a 0.5% zinc citrate dentifrice. From a population of 1600 subjects exhibiting calculus, 1210 subjects (age 18 and over) were selected and received a dental prophylaxis. The subjects were initially stratified on the basis of calculus score, age, and sex, then allocated randomly to a 3‐month usage period of one of two treatment groups. These were a dentifrice containing 0.5% zinc citrate or a control dentifrice without zinc citrate. Calculus was assessed using the Volpe‐Manhold Index. Oral soft tissue status was assessed throughout the course of the study. At the conclusion of the study 964 subjects had completed the trial: 486 using the zinc citrate dentifrice and 478 using the control. The results showed that the mean calculus scores in the group using the dentifrice containing zinc citrate were 13.7% lower than those of the group using the control dentifrice. This finding was statistically significant (p < 0.05). No adverse effects related to the use of either dentifrice were observed.
Variation in torus mandibularis prevalence in Norway A statistical analysis using logistic regression
Authors: Eggen Svein , Natvig Bent
Published: May 2006

Abstract The prevalence of torus mandibularis was assessed in two groups of dental patients, altogether 2010 individuals over 10 yr of age: 1181 individuals native to the Lofoten Islands in North Norway, situated at 68° latitude; and 829 patients indigenous to Gudbrandsdal, an inland district in the southeastern part of the country at 61° latitude. Both groups were supposed to be of the same Caucasian stock and, therefore, to have similar genetic predisposition to torus on the average. The following observations were found: 1) the prevalence of torus mandibularis was much greater in Gudbrandsdal than in Lofoten (P < <0.001); 2) the prevalence decreased among persons above 50 yr of age as compared with those of the age classes 10–49 yr (P < 0.01); and 3) it was smaller among women than men (P < 0.05), mainly due to such a decrease in Lofoten. In a recent investigation of people living in Gudbrandsdal the fraction of the variation of torus that was attributable to genetic differences was estimated as about 30%, whereas approximately 70% of the causes seemed to be ascribable to environmental influences in terms of occlusal stress. It is suggested that dietary habits and number of existing teeth seemed to be environmental variables with an influence on the observed variation of torus prevalence between geographical regions, age classes, and sexes. The question about a possible sexual difference as to the genetic component of liability to torus mandibularis was outside the scope of the present study.
Dental health in a group of drug addicts in Italy
Authors: Angelillo Italo Francesco , Grasso Guido Maria , Sagliocco Gaetano , Villari Paolo , D'Errico Marcello Mario
Published: May 2006

Abstract The caries prevalence, periodontal health, and oral hygiene status were assessed in 124 drug addicts aged 18–34 yr in Mercato San Severino (Salerno), Italy. The years of drug addiction ranged from 1 to 15 yr. The majority used heroin (96%) but all the subjects indicated that they had used more than one drug. The percentage of drug addicts caries Free was 6.5%, ranging From no caries Free subjects in the group over 29 yr of age, to 11.4% in the group aged 26–29 yr old. Mean DM FT and DMFS scores For all age groups were 12.9 and 36.2, respectively; mean Periodontal Index (PI) and mean Simplified Oral Hygiene Index (OHI‐S) scores were 1.37 and 1.71, respectively. The poor dental health in this target group indicates the need for more extensive collaboration between the social and dental health care sectors.
The problem of participation in the Dutch National Dental Survey
Authors: van't Hof Martin , Truin Gert‐Jan , Kalsbeek Huib , Burgersdijk Rob , Visser Ruud , Heiing Geert
Published: May 2006

Abstract In 1986 a nationwide dental survey was carried out in the Netherlands. The aims of the study were to assess the prevalence of oral diseases, need and demand for dental care and oral selfcare in the Dutch population aged 15–74 yr. This paper describes the general sampling and analysis procedures to detect selectivity in the participation. Irregular dental attenders seemed to be underrepresented in the final sample. Poststratification was used to overcome this problem of selectivity.
Malocclusion and orthodontic treatment need of 15–74‐year‐old Dutch adults
Authors: Burgersdijk Rob , Truin Gert‐Jan , Frankenmolen Frans , Kalsbeek Huib , van't Hot Martin , Mulder Jan
Published: May 2006

Abstract In 1986 a nationwide dental survey was performed in the Netherlands. This article describes the prevalence of dentofacial anomalies in the age group 15–74 yr, as well as the subjective and objective need for orthodontic treatment. The main findings were: severe crowding in the mandible was found in approximately 15%; an Angle Class II situation was seen in 28%; a maxillary overjet of greater than 5 mm was found in 23%; orthodontic treatment had or was being performed in approximately 25%; 45% of orthodontic treatment was carried out by a general practitioner; using professionally defined need, 39% of the population required treatment whereas only 14% of the people fell that this treatment was necessary.
Communication about dental health in Norwegian adults
Authors: Rise Jostein , Sögaard Anne Johanne
Published: May 2006

Abstract The present study describes the amount and distribution of communication on dental health issues in Norwegian adults. The empirical data stem from a representative sample of Norwegians aged 15 and above, and were collected by means of personal interviews by the poll organization Norges Markedsdata in 1983. Edentulous subjects were excluded, and the study group finally comprised 1225 subjects. The dependent variable dental communication was a dichotomy based upon whether or not the respondents had communicated with friends about dental health during the last 6 months. The following independent variables were used: age, sex, marital status, education, use of dental services, number of teeth, knowledge of prevention, information about dental health from dentists and media, use of dental (loss and toothpicks. The empirical analysis was performed using contingency table analysis and Multiple Classification Analysis (MCA). Separate analyses were performed for men and women. Significantly more women (27.6%) than men (14.5%) reported dental communication. In addition, the model provided a hotter 111 to the data on women compared to men in terms of R2 (12.5% and 8.9%). These observations can to some extent be accounted for by the existing sex‐role pattern. The only predictor which showed a consistent direct effect across sex was whether I he respondents had received information about dental health from media. This means That reference to the interpersonal context of mass communication perhaps best describes the complex transactional interplay of media and interpersonal sources in dental health matters.
Prediction of caries increment in Scottish adolescents
Authors: Russell Joyce I. , MacFarlane T. Wallace , Aitchison Thomas C. , Stephen Kenneth W. , Burchell Charles K.
Published: May 2006

Abstract Salivary, clinical, and microbiological factors were compared with subsequent 2‐yr caries increment in a group of 372 Scottish adolescents. The caries increment was significantly correlated with previous caries experience, salivary buffering capacity and counts of lactobacilli, mutans streptococci and Candida. Veillonella levels and salivary flow rate were not correlated with caries increment. Significant improvements in the predictions were obtained when the results of more than one test were included using stepwise regression analysis. On an individual basis, using stepwise discriminant analysis, the caries increment group (low, medium, or high) was identified correctly in 49% of all subjects, but this was reduced to 45% if previous caries experience was excluded from the analysis.
Cross‐sectional assessment of caries and periodontitis risk within the same subject
Authors: Kinane Denis F. , Jenkins William M. M. , Adonogianaki Eva , Murray Gordon D.
Published: May 2006

Abstract Dental caries and chronic periodontitis may be synergistically associated, negatively associated, or completely independent. The present report examines this relationship by comparing the susceptibility to chronic periodontitis and caries within the same individual. From an 800‐paticnl sample, a periodontitis risk score was derived by radiographic assessment of bone loss in quarters of optimum bone height and obtaining for each subject a mean score based on all measurable surfaces. Similarly the caries risk was determined radiographically from the total decayed and filled teeth (OFT), as a percentage of the total teeth measured. The Mantel Haenszel technique was used for analysis of the relationship between periodontitis and caries and data was stratified on four categories of age, sex, and numbers of teeth present. This analysis revealed no systematic patterns, indicating that the risks of caries and periodontal diseases are unrelated (χ2=0.00; 1 df; P > 0.50). In addition, a regression analysis, which was controlled for sex and age, indicated a marked lack of association between caries and periodontitis (P= 0.94). Thus, although these common diseases share putative etiologic factors such as oral hygiene practices and dental attendance pattern, the major risk factors are probably quite different.
Dental caries and salivary and microbial conditions in 50–60‐year‐old persons
Authors: Rask Per‐Inge , Emilson Claes‐Göran , Krasse Bo , Sundberg Hans
Published: May 2006

Abstract In a group of 124 persons, 50–60 yr old, the prevalence at baseline of mutans streptococci (MS) and lactobacilli and the salivary secretion rate and buffer capacity were examined. The mean secretion rate was 1.58 mL/min with a flow rate below 1 mL/min found in 20% of the persons. A buffer capacity below end pH 5.5 was observed in 64% of the subjects. MS was not detected in 5% of the persons whereas 17% had 106 or more MS per ml saliva. Lactobacilli were not found in 10% of the persons while 21% had counts in excess of 105 CFU/mL. A new examination 5 yr later in 1986 revealed no significant changes in secretion rate and buffer capacity or in the population of lactobacilli, whereas markedly elevated levels of salivary MS were found. S. sobrinus was detected in 35–37% of the persons at the two examinations. Persons with both S. mutans and S. sobrinus had more MS than persons with only S. mutans.
Dental caries and mutans streptococci in selected groups of urban and native Indian schoolchildren in Mexico
Authors: del Rio Gomez Illiana
Published: May 2006

Abstract Two groups of Mexican children aged 12–14 yr were examined for dental caries and salivary mutans streptococci counts. One hundred lived in Mexico City and 100 belonged to a native Mazahua Indian population. The prevalence of caries, diagnosed according to WHO, was 90% in Mexico City and 82% in the Indian community. Mean DM FT was 5.98 and 3.57 respectively. Saliva samples were analyzed for mutans streptococci by the “Strip mutans” method. Further identification of the biotype/serotype was done. Mutans streptococci were found in 95% of the urban children and 75% of the Indians. There was a statistically significant difference in the prevalence of mutans streptococci between the city and the rural samples. Streptococcus mutans was more frequently found than Streptococcus sobrinus.
Caries experience and distribution in relation to treatment needs among teenagers in Espoo, Finland
Authors: Luoma Anja‐Riitta , Rönnberg Kaj
Published: May 2006

Abstract An annual check‐up was made in groups of 12‐ and 16‐yr‐old children by dentists of the Public Health Center of Espoo. The D index was used instead of DMFT index, because it expresses the need for conservative treatment. This information, again, is essential for planning public dental care. The children were divided into four groups according to the number of decayed teeth developed during a period of approximately 1 yr. Children with D = 0 were classified as healthy, D = 1 as low, D = 2 as moderate, and D = 3 or more as high caries incidence. In 1980 the percentage of the group D = 0 was about 52% in the 12‐yr‐olds. In 1988 the percentage had increased up to about 73%. The corresponding figures of the 16‐yr‐olds were 33% and 62%. Simultaneously, the high caries incidence groups had decreased in 12‐yr‐olds from 13% in 1980 to 5% in 1988 and in 16‐yr‐olds from 31% to 10%. These observations emphasize the need for retargeting prevention of caries in order to provide additional preventive treatment to the high incidence groups while the routine prophylaxis given to the other groups may be decreased.
Oral conditions among German battery factory workers
Authors: Petersen Poul Erik , Gormsen Charlotte
Published: May 2006

Abstract The purpose of the study was to evaluate the oral health situation of workers in a modern battery factory; in particular, to describe the prevalence and the severity of dental erosion and attrition in relation to exposure of airborne acids in the work environment. Measurements of the work environment at a German battery factory showed that the workers were exposed to sulfuric acids (0.4–4.1 mg/cm3). All workers at the factory were included in the survey and a total of 61 dentate individuals completed a questionnaire on their work environment, dental health, and symptoms from the mouth, nose, and throat. Information on oral health status, erosion, and attrition was collected by clinical examinations. Nearly all workers reported exposure to etching substances in their work environment; 56% complained of sharp and thin teeth and 29% of short teeth. Poor dental health conditions were observed (e.g. mean D‐T=3.8); the mean number of teeth with crown restoration was 5.3. The prevalence of erosion was 31% and 92% were affected by attrition. Erosion was found only in front teeth while attrition also occurred in posterior teeth. Due to the high level of crown restorations a rather moderate dose‐effect relationship was observed. In conclusion, severe erosion and attrition due to sulfuric acid mists should be recognized as an occupational disease.
Dental fear and anxiety in an older adult population
Authors: Locker David , Liddell Andree , Burman David
Published: May 2006

Abstract A random sample of 580 people aged between 50 and 89 yr completed a questionnaire containing two measures of dental fear and anxiety. One of these was Corah's Dental Anxiety Scale (DAS) and the other a scale derived from the Structured Interview for Assessing Dental Fear (SIADF). The mean score on the DAS was 7.8, and 8.4% of subjects were classified as dentally anxious. There were no differences in mean DAS scores by sex but significant differences by age, with younger individuals having higher scores (P < 0.0001). The edentulous had significantly higher scores than the dentate (P < 0.001). Scores on the SIADF scale were higher among younger individuals (P < 0.0001), the edentulous (P < 0.01) and women (P < 0.05). Older adults who were dentally anxious were less likely to report a regular source of dental care and a dental visit in the previous year and more likely to report having avoided or delayed dental treatment. Possible explanations of higher dental anxiety scores among younger persons and the edentulous are reviewed.
Social factors and tooth loss in a 12‐year follow‐up study of women in Gothenburg, Sweden
Authors: Ahlqwist Margareta , Bengtsson Calle , Gröndahl Hans‐Göran , Lapidus Leif
Published: May 2006

Abstract Representative samples of women in different age groups in Gothenburg, Sweden, were examined by means of panoramic radiography in 1968–69 and in 1980–81. Edentulousness and number of remaining teeth were assessed from the radiographs. Data on socioeconomic conditions, educational background and dental care attendance were obtained from a questionnaire. Cross‐sectional results showed that improvements in dental status had occurred irrespective of socioeconomic conditions and educational levels and that differences between groups had decreased over the 12‐yr period. Dental care attendance was high in all socioeconomic groups, but differences noted in 1968–69 remained in 1980–81.
Relationship between number of teeth and periodontal pockets
Authors: Grytten Jostein , Steele Linda , Holst Dorthe
Published: May 2006

Abstract The relationship between number of teeth and the prevalence of periodontal disease is an important factor to consider when planning future needs for periodontal care. This is of particular relevance today, when the level of tooth loss is steadily reducing. The aim of the present study was to examine this relationship. Three dependent variables associated with periodontal disease were included in the analysis: 1. The probability of having pockets 4 mm or more. 2. The mean pocket depth for individuals with pockets 4 mm or more. 3. The number of pockets for individuals with pockets 4 mm or more. Age was included in the analysis as a control variable. The study population comprised 2219 individuals in the county of Trøndelag, Norway. The data were analyzed using logistic regression and multiple regression analysis. The probability of having pockets 4 mm or more increased with increasing number of teeth. The average pocket depth decreased with increasing number of teeth. There was no relationship between number of pockets and number of teeth. The increase in the probability of having pockets with a marginal increase in number of teeth was greatest for those aged 53 years and above. It is concluded that this group of people are likely to have the greatest need for periodontal care.
Caries prevalence and salivary mutans streptococci in 0–2‐year‐old children of Japan
Authors: Fujiwara Taku , Sasada Eiko , Mima Noriko , Ooshima Takashi
Published: May 2006

Abstract The prevalence of caries and the number and species distribution of salivary mutans streptococci in 356 children (aged 0–2 yr old) in Japan were examined twice at an interval of 1 yr. No mutans streptococci were isolated from the predentate children. The detection rate of mutans streptococci and the prevalence of caries increased with age. Mutans streptococci were isolated from 39.9% of the subjects. The majority of isolates were identified as Streptococcoccus mutans. The concentration of mutans streptococci correlated with the number of erupted teeth (r = 0.339). In addition, the concentration of mutans streptococci was more closely correlated to the caries prevalence of the next year (r = 0.465) than that of the year when the salivary concentration of mutans streptococci was first evaluated (r = 0.368). The children who had no caries but harbored mutans streptococci in the first year showed significantly higher caries prevalence in the next year than did the children with neither caries nor mutans streptococci. These results indicate that the establishment of mutans streptococci is associated with caries initiation in early childhood.
Epidemiological study of oral leukoplakia based on mass screening for oral mucosal diseases in a selected Japanese population
Authors: Ikeda Noriaki , Ishii Takuo , Iida Susumu , Kawai Tuyoshi
Published: May 2006

Abstract The purpose of this study was 1) to show the epidemiological status of oral leukoplakia in a selected population of 3131 Japanese (504 women, 2627 men, aged 18–63 yr, mean age 35.9 yr), and 2) to estimate of the validity of the diagnosis of oral leukoplakia by general practitioners. Seventy‐seven individuals were detected as having leukoplakia, a prevalence of 2.5%; 2.7% and 1.0% for men and women, respectively, a difference that is statistically significant (P < 0.001). The percentage of smokers was 75.3% for patients with leukoplakia and 47.8% for individuals detected as not having leukoplakia, a difference which is statistically significant (P < 0.001). Of 77 leukoplakia patients, 37 cases (48.1%) received a clinically confirmed diagnosis and 27 patients were diagnosed in further examination as having leukoplakia. These results can also be expressed by a positive predictive value of 0.73 and a false positive ratio of 0.27 for the diagnosis of leukoplakia in the primary mass screening by general practitioners. The results of this study suggest that in order to carry out an efficient oral health program in Japan, the objects for mass screening for leukoplakia might be better limited to men over 30 and women over 40 yr of age.
Randomization analysis of dental data characterized by skew and variance heterogeneity
Authors: Cohen M. E. , Arthur J. S.
Published: May 2006

Abstract Many distributions of dental variables exhibit positive skew and variance heterogeneity. Although the use of parametric tests on data with these disturbances usually does not pose a problem with respect to alpha error level, transformation of data sometimes increases power. Occasionally one or both of these expectations do not hold and it becomes problematic as to whether data should be transformed and which analyses should be considered valid. Simulated dental trials were conducted on independent samples (n= 25 per group) drawn from exponential distributions with the same or different population means. t‐tests on raw, log, and square root transformed data; the Mann‐Whitney‐Wilcoxon ranking test; and a randomization test, all exhibited satisfactory levels of alpha error but the randomization test exhibited the greatest power followed closely by the t‐test on raw scores. The present results demonstrate that the log transformation does not increase power for all forms of positively skewed data. Randomization tests, not being subject to normality and variance homogeneity assumptions, may yield greater confidence in validity in these cases. Some implications for analytical strategy are discussed.
Effect of time costs on demand for dental services among adults in Norway in 1975 and 1985
Authors: Grytten Jostein
Published: May 2006

Abstract The aim of the present study was to assess the effect of travel time, time spent on a waiting list and time spent in the waiting room on demand for dental services in Norway. The analysis was performed on two sets of national data from 1975 and 1985, and on one set of local data from 1987. The national data were representative of the non‐institutionalized Norwegian population aged 20 yr and above. Travel time had an effect on demand in 1975, but not in 1985. Time spent on a waiting list had no opportunity cost, and did not influence demand. There was a statistically significant association between time spent in the waiting room and demand. However, this association disappeared when the effect of dental attendance pattern was controlled for. Regular attenders had shorter waiting times than those who were irregular attenders. This study has shown that factors such as presence of teeth, family income, and age are more important than travel time on demand for dental services.
Tooth loss and dental caries in Dutch adults
Authors: Kalsbeek Huib , Truin Gert Jan , Burgersdijk Rob , van't Hof Martin
Published: May 2006

Abstract As part of a nationwide dental survey in 1986 a caries study was executed in 3526 adults, aged 15–74 yr. living in 40 residential areas in The Netherlands. Marked differences were found between the social classes distinguished (more edentates in the lower classes) and between the different regions. It is supposed that these differences reflect the lack of dental manpower in the past.
Effects of diagnostic threshold and overlapped approximal surfaces on reported caries status
Authors: Rimmer Patricia Anne , Pitts Nigel Berry
Published: May 2006

Abstract The aims of this study were to examine the influence upon reported caries stains of: 1) employing different diagnostic thresholds and 2) using differing conventions for treating approximal surfaces which appeared overlapped on posterior bitewing radiographs. Caries prevalence data from a group of 211 Scottish schoolchildren aged 5–15 yr studied during a trial of elective temporary tooth separation in general dental practice in Scotland were used. In this “moderate” caries group, values for dmft/DMFT rose significantly (P < 0.001) when the D1 diagnostic threshold (all grades of lesion accepted) was applied in comparison with the D3 threshold (only caries into dentine recognised); dmft increasing from 3.9 to 5.4 and DMFT increasing from 1.7 to 4.7. This demonstrated that an over‐optimistic impression of overall caries levels may he given when only the D3 threshold is used uncritically. In this study the status of approximal surfaces which were overlapped on bitewing radiographs was assessed by direct clinical examination using the temporary elective tooth separation technique. The investigation showed that, for this juvenile population, most (81.8% mesial, 93.1 % distal) overlapped approximal surfaces were sound. Significantly more mesial than distal surfaces were found to be overlapped.
Comparison of patients' views and dentists' evaluations 5 years after complete denture treatment
Authors: Kalk Warner , de Baat Cees , Kaandorp Arjan
Published: May 2006

Abstract This study describes a comparison of patients' views of their dentures and dentists' technical evaluations 5 yr after complete denture treatment. Of the original sample (n= 139) a test group of 92 patients remained available for the actual study 5 yr after treatment. Firstly, the patients filled in a questionnaire regarding their complaints of and (dis)satisfaction with dentures. Secondly, they were examined independently by two experienced dentists in order to evaluate their dentures. Finally, after considering the answers to the questions in the questionnaire and their own dentures' evaluation the dentists proposed a therapy. It was found that patients and dentists agree on assessments of denture retention, but do not agree on assessment of denture aesthetical aspects. Furthermore, it appeared that generally more therapy was rendered by the dentists than could be expected on the basis of their evaluations and the patients' views.
Finnish dentists as tobacco counselors
Authors: Telivuo Matti , Vehkalahti Miira , Lahtinen Aira , Murtomaa Heikki
Published: May 2006

Abstract The first nationwide survey of Finnish dentists use of tobacco, their inquiring about and advising patients on tobacco use, and their attitudes toward anti‐tobacco health education (ATHE) was carried out at the end of 1987. A questionnaire mailed to 540 demists produced 435 answers (81%). One fourth of the male dentists and 6% of the female dentists currently were smokers, and 11% of men and 2% of women smoked daily. Information on smoking practices of patients was obtained always by 8%, often by 18%, and occasionally by 62% of the dentists. Four percent of the dentists advised always and 15% often their patients about smoking, and 62%, did so occasionally. The majority of the dentists agreed that dentists should take part in ATHE and that dentists can encourage patients to stop using tobacco. The respondents supporting (he involvement of dentists in ATHE reported having an active role in tobacco counseling (TC) significantly more frequently than those not sharing the idea of involvement. It was concluded that Finnish dentists could be a valuable resource in TC because of their positive altitudes.
Hepatitis B vaccination and infection control in Brazilian dental practice, 1990
Authors: de Almeida Oslei Paes , Scully Crispian , Jorges Jack
Published: May 2006

Abstract The aims of the study were to examine the knowledge of occupational hazards from blood‐borne viruses, and practices related to cross‐infection control in Brazil, by a survey of 947 Brazilian dental practitioners at a National Dental Congress in January 1990. Over 80% were aware that hepatitis B virus can be present in the oral cavity and constitutes an occupational hazard but their perceptions is to the hazards from other agents were at variance with the published evidence. Over 75% were aware of the existence of vaccines against hepatitis B virus but less than 60% appreciated the possible long‐term hepatic sequelae of hepatitis B virus infection and, less than 40% were aware of the oncogenic potential. Less than 10% bad been immunized against hepatitis B and only a further 10% intended to be vaccinated. Autoclaves were used by less than 10%: most appeared to use chemical means for disinfection of dental instruments. These results indicate the urgent need for a campaign to improve infection control procedures in Brazilian dental practice.
Tooth loss and caries prevalence in older Floridians attending senior activity centers
Authors: Heft Marc W. , Gilbert Gregg H.
Published: May 2006

Abstract Older adults attending 14 senior activity centers in six counties of Florida cooperated for a questionnaire and an oral examination. The mean age was 76.5 yr. and about one‐third were 80 yr or older. One‐third of the dentate persons had dental caries. Most of the carious lesions were on the crown, not the root, and most of the decay was primary, not recurrent. Most of the persons with a need for caries treatment were likely to seek dental care; however, the majority of carious surfaces were in persons who reported being infrequent users of care. These results from ambulatory older adults suggest that older adults have significant caries treatment needs, and provide support for the view that the treatment of older U.S. adults may grow in the coming decades.
Knowledge, attitudes and behaviour in relation to dental health of adults in Belfast, Northern Ireland
Authors: Keogh Trisha , Linden Gerard J.
Published: May 2006

Abstract The aim was to investigate the knowledge, attitudes and behaviour related to dental health of adults living in two neighbouring areas in Belfast, Northern Ireland. XI adults aged 30 yr or over from two neighbouring residential areas in South Belfast completed a structured interview. The responses of those who retained natural teeth were very different from those who were edentulous. Those in the higher socioeconomic stains groups hail clearer knowledge, more positive altitudes and more appropriate behaviour related to dental health than those in lower socioeconomic status groups. The differences between the residents of the two areas were less obvious than those noted between the different socioeconomic status groups. It was concluded that the results revealed misconceptions amongst adults in Northern Ireland regarding the causes of dental disease and how it might be prevented both in themselves and in their children.
Self‐assessment of dental conditions: validity of a questionnaire
Authors: Palmqvist Sigvard , Söderfeldt Björn , Arnbjerg Dorte
Published: May 2006

Abstract In order to determine (he validity of dental data obtained from a questionnaire. 100 subjects randomly selected from 2383 respondents were examined clinically. The quality of dental status was ordered in lour groups for the number of mission and replaced teeth and for denture stains. For the number of missing and replaced teeth, the observed agreement between the clinical diagnosis and the questionnaire answers was 65% for both the maxilla and the mandible, and the agreement estimated by Kappa was 0.52. However, the disagreement was not randomly distributed, since reporting of better dental status than the actual one was much more common than reporting of poorer stains. Regarding denture status, the agreement between self‐assessment and clinical diagnosis was good; all removable dentures in situ at the clinical examination were reported by the subjects as some kind of denture, although not always the correct type. The results of the study indicate that the use of self‐assessment might be reasonable when measuring denture status, and (hat self‐assessment of the number of missing and replaced teeth is a biased estimate of the clinical diagnosis. Thus appropriate action should he taken when using (his type of data.
Correlations between caries prevalence and potential etiologic factors in large samples of 4–5‐yr‐old children
Authors: Granath Lars , Cleaton‐Jones Peter , Fatti Paul , Grossman Elly
Published: May 2006

Abstract A data base containing information on dental caries, oral hygiene, gingival state. Streptococcus mutans and lactobacillus counts, and salivary How rate and buffer capacity in some 2800 4–5‐yr‐old South African children was created in 1984. The children were equally distributed in four groups; rural black, urban black, urban Indian, and urban white. In this study, the data were used for simple linear correlations between all the factors including caries as well as stepwise multiple regression analyses between caries prevalence and the independent factors in each of the four groups. The highest r value obtained in the single correlations was 0.56 for dmfs/lactobacillus count in the while group. The overall pattern of the groups did not vary much. In the stepwise multiple regression analyses, lactobacilli entered first in all groups. V. mutans and oral hygiene interchanged as Nos. 2 and 3, and gingival state or buffer capacity came out as No. 4. The highest percentage of caries variability explained by these regressions was 25% in the urban black group, while the lowest was 12%, in the Indian group. It was concluded that our generally accepted etiologic factors are unsatisfactory to explain variation in caries in observational studies, which among other things might be ascribed to the inadequate way these factors generally are measured or estimated.
Prevalence study of oral precancerous lesions within a complex screening system in Hungary
Authors: Bánóczy Jolán , Rigó Orsolya
Published: May 2006

Abstract Previous epidemiological studies, performed in conjunction with compulsory lung screening examinations, showed good results in detecting oral lesions in Hungary, where the mortality rate of oropharyngeal cancer has increased by more than 30% in the past decade. Oral examinations were performed on a district population sample in Budapest, called regularly for X‐ray lung examinations. Precancerous lesions and conditions were diagnosed and grouped according to internationally accepted criteria. Oral examinations of 7820 individuals were performed: 42.9% in men and 57.1% in women; 42% of all examined subjects were over 60 yr of age. Oral leukoplakia was diagnosed in 104 cases (1.3%). Histologic examination revealed squamous cell carcinoma in one case. About 70% of oral leukoplakias occurred in men and 30% in women. Oral lichen was diagnosed in six cases (0.08%). The prevalence of smokers was 86.5% in the leukoplakia group as compared with 29% in the non‐lesion group. The new organizational screening model seems to function well in the “risk group” of elderly persons, especially in the early diagnosis of oral cancer and precancerous lesions.