bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Decayed, missing, and filled teeth among Jewish and Arab schoolchildren in Israel
Authors: Anaise Joseph Z.
Published: May 2006

The purpose of this investigation was to gather information on caries prevalence in schoolchildren of Arab and Jewish populations, and compare caries prevalence according to sex, age and population examined. Altogether, 3672 children were included in the survey (1975)Jews, 1001 of whom were females; and 1697 Arabs, 840 of whom were females). During the examination only dental caries were checked. Caries were marked according to the DMF index. Compared to former years there is an increase in the prevalence of caries throughout the population. A slightly lower caries prevalence was found among jewish children than among Arab children of the same age. However, when DMF is broken down into its component parts, Arab children were seen to have a greater number of teeth affected by caries and in need of treatment (D). Furthermore, treatment need has been met to a much greater degree among Jewish children than among Arab children. Arab children received almost no dental care.
Application of the Periodontal Treatment Need System (PTNS) in a group of young Israeli adults
Authors: Mann Jonathan , Zach Avner , Shem‐Tov Arye , Anaise Joseph Z.
Published: May 2006

The Periodontal Treatment Need System (PTNS) was applied to a group of young Israeli adults, 18‐25 years of age, to test the system in the field. A total of 830 persons were examined. Their periodontal treatment needs were assessed. One of the aspects investigated was that of treatment needs according to distribution by sex. Only 2.7% of young adults studied were free of plaque, calculus and gingival inflammation. All the rest (97.3%) needed some kind of periodontal treatment. The time required for treatment needed was also calculated. It was found that on the average 2.4 h per person would be required to deliver the periodontal treatment needs of the group. A close association between sex and PTNS was established in this study.
Monitoring and evaluation of results of community fluoride programs in Norway during the 1960's and 1970's
Authors: Rise J. , Haugejorden O.
Published: May 2006

The purpose of this paper was to report on the introduction, functioning and results of community fluoride programs in Norway during the 1960's and 1970's. Data on the treatment carried out in the School and Public Dental Services were available in official publications. Information on systematic community topical fluoride programs for priority groups was collected by postal questionnaire from all School and Public Dental Officers. Nine variables were described and used to construct a correlation matrix. During the 1970's, there has been an increase in rinsing and professional topical application at the expense of brushing programs. Though the participation‐rate increased steadily among 7‐15‐year‐olds and had reached 60% by 1970 and 90% by 1977, the mean number of surfaces filled did not show a consistent downward trend till 1972/73. The reduction in mean number of surfaces filled from 1972 to 1976 tended to be biggest in counties with a high mean number of surfaces filled in 1972 (r=0.79). Regional variations in mean number of surfaces filled have decreased markedly during the 1970's. Possible explanations for this and problems concerning collection of data on preventive activities are discussed.
Prevalence of root surface caries among institutionalized older persons
Authors: Banting David W. , Ellen Richard P. , Fillery Edward D.
Published: May 2006

Fifty‐nine residents of a chronic hospital (average age 67.9 years) were examined visually for root surface caries. Root lesions were found to be present in 44 of the residents and were located most frequently on the proximal surfaces of anterior teeth. The number of coronal DF surfaces, age and number of retained teeth were the factors found to be helpful in discriminating between persons with and without root surface caries.
Cleft lip and cleft palate in Santo Domingo
Authors: García‐Godoy Franklin
Published: May 2006

The purpose of this study was to analyze the occurrence of isolated cleft lip (CL), cleft lip with cleft palate (CL + CP) and isolated cleft palate (CP) and their distribution according to sex and laterality in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, located in the Caribbean Archipelago. The sample consisted of 439 hospital records (204 males and 235 females) of patients attending a children's public hospital in Santo Domingo over the period of May 1973 to December 1976. Of all facial clefts, the highest percentage (36.4%) was presented by CL, followed by CP (32.1%) and CL + CP (31.4%). Of all facial clefts, males presented the highest percentage (53.5%). For both sexes, there was an equal number of cases with CL (17.54 %) but more males had CL + CP (0.20 > P0.10) and more females presented CP (P < 0.001). The left‐sided defects were almost twice as common as the right‐sided defects. The ratio of unilateral clefts‐to‐bilateral clefts was 5.4:1.
Oral health status and treatment needs in long‐term medicine patients in a Copenhagen hospital department
Authors: Donatsky O. , Ahlgren P. , From Hansen P.
Published: May 2006

Oral health and dental treatment needs were investigated in 50 randomly selected long‐term medicine patients admitted to The Glostrup Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Glostrup, Denmark. All the patients were clinically and radiologically examined. Oral health generally was poor. Two‐thirds (66%) of the patients were totally edentulous, 24 % partially edentulous. Only 10 % were dentate with no dentures. The number of remaining teeth per patient averaged 4.7, that of caries destructed teeth 1.4. All 17 patients with remaining teeth had periodontal disease, and 13 of them suffered from caries. Alveolar ridge atrophy, periapical inflammation, root remnants, impacted teeth and oral mucosal lesions were demonstrated in, respectively, 80, 22, 24, 8, and 26% of the group. In total 82 % of the patients needed some kind of treatment, mainly prosthetic and oral surgery. The estimated total treatment time per patient averaged 165 min.
Dental health and the application of geographical methodology
Authors: Taylor P. J. , Carmichael C. L.
Published: May 2006

Reorganisation of dental services in Britain gives new opportunities for planning. Geographical methodology provides new techniques. An elementary spatial analysis of variations in dental health in Newcastle Area Health Authority (Teaching) shows that dental health varies with availability and access to treatment facilities. Opposite types of geographical distribution of community (School) and general dental services are illustrated showing location biases for each type of service. The evaluation of the spatial distribution of dental services is shown to be basic to planning and a key to improved dental health.
Prevalence of recurrent headache and mandibular dysfunction in patients with unsatisfactory complete dentures
Authors: Magnusson Tomas
Published: May 2006

The prevalence of headache and mandibular dysfunction was studied in 43 patients with unsatisfactory complete dentures waiting for prosthodontic treatment at the Dental Clinic of the National Dental Service in Jokkmokk, Sweden. In addition to answering a questionnaire, all patients underwent a clinical‐functional examination of the masticatory system. Seventeen patients (40%), 15 women and two men, reported recurrent headache. 63% of the men and 83% of the women showed marked clinical signs of mandibular dysfunction. A significant correlation between headache and mandibular dysfunction was found. The low representation of complete denture wearers in clinical series of patients referred for treatment of mandibular dysfunction may be due to a reduced propensity to seek help and a greater willingness to accept a certain degree of dysfunction compared with other people.
Relationship of children's anxiety to their potential dental health behaviour
Authors: Wright F. A. C.
Published: May 2006

In this study of 200 New Zealand schoolchildren aged 7‐13 years, a questionnaire interview was used to gain information related to estimating dental anxiety and general illness anxiety. Information related to sociodemographic differences, belief differences, and an estimate of potential health behaviour was also collected. Oral examinations were performed and the number of dental restorations present recorded. Dental anxiety was associated with memory of pain during a dental visit. The number of restorations present, and a history of pain during a dental visit, were important predictors of illness anxiety. Neither dental anxiety nor illness anxiety operating alone provided an estimate of future dental health behaviour. Dental anxiety and illness anxiety operated through a complex interplay of variables. A stepwise multiple regression technique was used to determine the possible pathways to potential dental health behaviour. Perceived vulnerability to dental caries and perceived severity of dental disease were important in the prediction of potential denture wearing; school attended and ethnic background were useful predictors of potential extraction seeking; and school grade and level of perceived internal control were predictors of potential preventive visitation.
Epidemiologic study of joined primary teeth in Finnish children
Authors: Järvinen Seppo , Lehtinen Liisa , Milen Anneli
Published: May 2006

The frequency of geminated and fused primary teeth was studied in a sample of 1141 Finnish children aged 3‐4 years. The prevalence was 0.7%. All the joined teeth were found in the anterior area of the mouth. In seven cases the diagnosis was a fusion of two separate teeth, and in one case it was a gemination of a single tooth. A correlation between joined teeth in primary dentition and numerical variations of teeth in permanent dentition was noted in three cases.
Patterns of tooth vulnerability to caries in South African high school pupils
Authors: Cleaton‐Jones P. , Walker A. R. P.
Published: May 2006

Caries prevalence and distributions were studied in 761 South African high school pupils aged 17 years in four ethnic groups, living in urban (low F) and rural (low and high F) areas. Mean DMFT values were significantly higher among White pupils than all other groups. Comparison of mean DMFT among the Black pupils showed that urban Black dwellers had a significantly higher score than rural pupils when caries‐free individuals were included in the analysis, but not when scores for only those with a DMFT of 1 or more were compared. No significant differences were found between the DMFT values of Black rural pupils living in high or low fluoride areas. Among Black rural pupils, dental caries was approximately three times more common in permanent second molars compared with permanent first molars. In urbanized Black, Coloured, Indian and White subjects, the molars were approximately equally affected.
Dental caries prevalence and treatment status of 12‐year‐old children in a non‐fluoridated area
Authors: Kinirons Martin J. , Mageean James F.
Published: May 2006

424 12‐year‐old children were examined in Mallow, a non‐fluoridated town in North Cork, to ascertain the dental status of children finishing first level education. Both the caries prevalence and the treatment pattern were examined. The DMF was found to be 6.58 and the RI was 52.5%. A new index of restored and sound teeth (RSI) was applied and a value of 38.6% was obtained.
Impact of a periodontal course on oral hygiene and gingival health among senior dental students
Authors: Tenenbaum H.
Published: May 2006

This survey attempted to determine the impact of the periodontal course on oral hygiene and gingival health among 50 senior dental students. The course included the following: patient motivation, instruction in oval hygiene procedures and plaque control, scaling and curellage, temporary splinting and occlusal adjustment. Without advance notice, plaque deposits were scored using the Plaque Index and gingival health was determined using the Gingival Index. The results were collected at the beginning and at the end of the periodontal course (about 2 months). The results were analyzed using the paired t‐test. No improvement of either oral hygiene or gingival health was noted at the end of the periodontal course. It seems that even some dental students, who should know the direct relationship between bacterial plaque and periodontal diseases and should be better motivated than the average patient, failed to demonstrate effective oral hygiene. It is difficult to expect an improvement of patient oral hygiene, when the patients have been motivated by students who are unable to perform satisfactory personal oral hygiene themselves. It is suggested that a greater emphasis be placed on patient motivation and instruction in oral hygiene throughout the dental curriculum.
Age, degree of mental retardation, institutionalization, and socioeconomic status as determinants in the oral hygiene status of mentally retarded individuals
Authors: Tesini David A.
Published: May 2006

Oral hygiene has been implicated as a causal factor in the development of dental caries and periodontal disease in mentally retarded individuals. Little attention, however, has been given to the determinants of oral hygiene status. The present paper assesses the oral hygiene status of institutionalized (I) and noninstitutionalized (NI) mentally retarded (MR) individuals aged 4 through 25, in relation to age, degree of mental retardation, and socioeconomic status. Institutional status was found to be a major determinant in oral hygiene conditions of the study group, as IMR individuals had significantly higher OHI scores than NIMR individuals. Associations of age and OHI were significant only for NIMR. Although differences between land NI groups, with respect to degree of mental retardation, were seen for mildly, moderately, and severely retarded, no significant difference in OHI scores between I and NI profoundly retarded was seen. Socioeconomic status was not found to be a significant factor in the oral hygiene status of MR individuals. This study emphasizes the need to assess age, degree of mental retardation, and institutional status when implicating oral hygiene in caries and periodontal disease prevalence in MR individuals.
Oral conditions in Australian children of Aboriginal and Caucasian descent
Authors: Schamschula R. G. , Cooper M. H. , Adkins B. L. , Barmes D. E. , Aous Helen M.
Published: May 2006

Oral health parameters were examined for 211 schoolchildren (128 Aborigines and 83 Caucasians) representative of the 6–8 and 10–11 year age groups in the Brewarrina and Walgett areas of western New South Wales (fluoride in water ≤ 0.02–0.26 parts/106). Despite similar dietary carbohydrate challenge and tooth eruption patterns, Aboriginal children, most of whom were members of a transitional community within a low socioeconomic stratum, had higher prevalence of caries (DIMFT) and severity rating of carious lesions (SR), poorer oral hygiene (OHI) and more gingivitis (PI) than Caucasian children, in both age groups. Tooth defects were more frequent (2.5 times) and severe in Aborigines than in Caucasians. Outstanding treatment needs were very high in both ethnic groups, but more so in Aborigines.
Oral health of adolescent and adult Australian Aborigines
Authors: Schamschula R. G. , Cooper M. H. , Wright Myra C. , Agus Helen M. , Un Pauline S. H.
Published: May 2006

A pilot survey of oral health included 83 adolescent and adult Aborigines (41 M, 42 F, range 16–70 years, mean age 37.3 years), resident in fringe settlements around the far western New South Wales towns of Brewarrina and Walgett (fluoride in water ≤ 0.02‐0.26 parts/106). Dental caries prevalence (mean DIMFT per person) increased from 17.1 at 20 years to 20.7 at 35 years and declined to 14.6 by the age of 50 years and over. Oral hygiene (OHI) was poor overall and deteriorated with age. Periodontal status (PI) was significantly correlated with the presence of debris (DI) and calculus (CI). The mean PI increased from 1.7 at 20 years to 4.8 at 43 years and over. Tooth mortality reached 75% by the age of 43 years. Prosthetic needs were correspondingly high, but 95% of denture requirements were unmet. No evidence of effective or sustained oral health care was seen; 38% of subjects needed emergency treatment.
Panoramic radiographic examination of 704 Danish children aged 9–10 years
Authors: Locht Sven
Published: May 2006

Panoramic radiographs of 704 apparently healthy children aged 9–10 years were examined regarding anomalies and pathologic conditions in the maxillofacial area. Almost all findings were mesial to the molars. 1.7% of the children had a supernumerary tooth, 7.7% had hypodontia. Malposition of 631 permanent teeth was recorded. 42 dentigerous cysts were detected. Malformed crown or root was seen on 60 permanent teeth. Caries was found on 224 primary and 32 permanent teeth. 257 primary teeth showed atypical resorption, and 53 had a periapical inflammatory radiolucency. 20 retained roots of primary teeth were detected. 31 maxillary sinuses had an opacity. There were very few other findings.
Prevalence of narrow zone of attached gingiva and improper attachment of labial frena in youths
Authors: Jańczuk Zbigniew , Banach Jadwiga
Published: May 2006

An epidemiologic study comprising 1542 girls and boys aged 15–17 revealed that the occurrence of the narrowest attached gingiva zone (> 0, ≤ 1 mm) was more frequent in the mandible (23.0%) than in the maxilla (2.0%). At the same time, the first type of labial frena attachment (mucosal type) was observed most often, again dominating in the mandible (71.0%).
Toothbrushing in relation to other health habits in Finland
Authors: Rajala M. , Honkala E. , Rimpelä M. , Lammi S.
Published: May 2006

The dimensionality of health behavior is disputable. In the present study an effort was made to shed more light on this problem. Interview data were obtained from 3209 13‐19‐year‐old Finnish adolescents concerning the subjects' smoking habits, use of alcohol, physical activity, toothbrushing and dietary habits. A clear positive relationship was observed between tooth‐brushing and the use of sugar‐containing snacks. Use of alcohol seemed to have slight adverse effect on toothbrushing. Smoking was also weakly related with sporadic toothbrushing. Sports‐oriented girls seemed to be regular toothbrushers. It was concluded that the possible comprehensive nature of health behavior should be more appreciated.
Two‐year study on the effect of professional toothcleaning on schoolchildren in Oppegård, Norway
Authors: Kjærheim Vibeke , von der Fehr Frithjof R. , Poulsen Sven
Published: May 2006

A longitudinal study on the effect of a preventive program based on bimonthly professional toothcleaning and hygiene instruction was carried out on 293 schoolchildren from the 1st, 4th and 7th grades. The prophylactic paste used contained 0.8%sodium monofluorophosphate. The control groups brushed with a 0.2% sodium fluoride solution four to five times during each school year. After 2 years the Visible Plaque Index and the Gingival Bleeding Index were significantly reduced for all grades in the test groups as compared to the controls. The percentage of children without new caries lesions increased significantly from an average of 50 % in the control to 71% in (he lest group. The mean caries increments during the 2 years, excluding occlusal surfaces, were 0.22, 0.28 and 1.20 in the three test groups. This represents an average caries reduction of 65%, compared to the control group. The increment reductions reached borderline significance, using the chi‐square test.
Test of a method to determine socially acceptable occlusal conditions
Authors: Jenny Joanna , Cons Naham C. , Kohout Frank J. , Jean Frazier P.
Published: May 2006

A method for determining the social acceptability for dental appearance across the full range of occlusal conditions found in a natural population was developed and tested. The strategy used in developing the Social Acceptability Scale of Occlusal Conditions (SASOC) was to present photographs of 100 dental study models to a large sample of high school students (n= 880) and their parents (n= 403) whose responses were measured by asemantic differential instrument. After refinement of the semantic differential instrument scale scores were derived for each study model by computing the mean individual scores. Ranks were assigned to the mean scores. The Pearsonian correlation obtained between parent and student subsamples was 0.95. The reliability and validity of SASOC were assessed. COCSTOC measures of specific occlusal traits for these 100 study models are available. The future task involves the development of a highly reliable regression equation for predicting social acceptability scores from a small number of objective physical measurements.
Myofascial Pain Dysfunction (MPD) Syndrome in twins
Authors: Heiberg A. , Helöe B. , Heiberg A. N. , Helöe L. A. , Magnus P. , Berg K. , Nance W. E.
Published: May 2006

The Myofascial Pain Dysfunction Syndrome (MPD) was investigated in 94 twin pairs (21 male pairs and 73 female pairs), who had not been selected with respect Lo MPD. The frequency of past and/or present symptoms was found to be 10% in males and 27 % in females. No differences between monozygous (identical) and dizygous (non‐identical) female twins was found in pair‐wise concordance rates, the concordance rate being higher than expected to occur by chance in both twin types. The findings are compatible with the view that environmental influences give rise to this specific stress‐reaction pattern.
Preventive dental health in adolescents: short and long term pupil response to trials of an integrated curriculum package
Authors: Craft Michael , Croucher Ray , Dickinson Julie
Published: May 2006

Abstract A controlled evaluation of a 3‐week teacher mediated dental health education curriculum package was undertaken in 35 English secondary schools in three Area Health Authorities. 4500 13–14‐year‐old adolescents were involved. The package emphasized self‐care potential and combined a scientifically accurate message with educational and behavioural science concepts. Evaluation was at the levels of process and outcome using changes in oral hygiene recorded on a random sample (n = 1491) by two trained examiners; self‐complete pre/posttest questionnaires, pupil worksheets and home experiment diaries. Behavioural, cognitive and affective outcomes are reported. Significant improvements in oral hygiene status were recorded at the conclusion of the programme along with large gains in knowledge and positive changes in attitude. Long term follow‐up oral hygiene examinations in six schools (n = 145) conducted in conjunction with a reinforcement programme, indicated a maintenance of the initial improvements in five schools. Further significant improvements were measured after the reinforcement programme.
Interim report on DMF‐reduction 16 years after the introduction of a preventive program
Authors: Marthaler Thomas M.
Published: May 2006

Abstract Supervised toothbrushing with fluoride containing preparations and information on prevention of dental disease was introduced in 1963/64 for the majority of schools in the Canton of Zurich. Standardized examinations were carried out every 4 years, starting in 1963. From 1963 to 1979, DMFT levels decreased by 58–60%. Reductions of DF counts were highest in free smooth surfaces of molars and in anterior teeth, exceeding 90%. In contrast, pit and fissure carious lesions were reduced by 55%. Approximal caries also diminished substantially but the findings cannot be summarized by simple percent reductions. The number of sound primary teeth increased markedly from 1963 to 1975.
Symptoms and signs of the Mandibular Pain Dysfunction Syndrome – a Symptom Index
Authors: Smith James Pitchford
Published: May 2006

Abstract An analysis of the symptoms and signs of the Mandibular Pain Dysfunction Syndrome (MDS) provoked by an opening movement of the mandible in a cohort of 140 patients produced a Symptom Index. This Index is compared with a previously described Movement Index for the same patients.
Occupations with low risk of lip cancer show high risk of skin cancer of the head
Authors: Lindqvist C. , Teppo L. , Pukkala E.
Published: May 2006

Abstract The standardized morbidity ratios (SMR) of lip and non‐melanomatous skin cancer (basal‐cell carcinoma excluded) of the head and neck in males were determined for different Occupational groups in Finland. The data on all cases of these types of cancer diagnosed in Finland in the age group 35–69 years in 1971–75 were supplemented by information on occupations from the 1970 census (Central Statistical Office of Finland). The expected numbers of cases were based on the age and occupation‐specific numbers of person‐years computed by the Central Statistical Office, and the age‐specific incidence rates of lip and skin cancers among the economically active population. The highest SMR of lip cancer among all the occupational groups was found in agriculture, forestry and fishing (1.64). In contrast, the SMR of skin cancer was not higher than expected in occupations related to agriculture and forestry. Significantly lower than expected risks of lip cancer were observed among highly educated while‐collar workers, among whom the risk of contracting skin cancer was the highest (technical, scientific, humanistic and artistic work, SMR 1.78). The morbidity of both lip and skin cancers varies considerably by occupation, and tin‐risks seem to be, at least in part, inversely related. Thus, it is probable that there are also differences in the risk factors, contrary to several earlier suggestions. The nature of these factors are discussed.
Caries progression in primary molars: 24‐month results from a minimal treatment programme
Authors: Craig G. G. , Powell K. R. , Cooper M. H.
Published: May 2006

Abstract A 2‐stage topical treatment regimen (AgF followed by SnF2) was used in an attempt to limit caries progression in the primary molars of children participating in a minimal treatment programme. The children lived in an isolated community in western New South Wales (fluoride in water < 0.2 parts/106) and were from a low socioeconomic background. The progression, over a 24‐month period, of 281 established lesions in the approximal and occlusal surfaces of primary molars in 54 subjects (mean age 7.0 years) was determined from bilewing radiographs. Of the lesions studied, the majority (69%) were in dentine at baseline. At 24 months, 74% of the approximal surface lesions and 90% of the occlusal surface lesions that were in enamel at baseline remained unchanged. The greatest change occurred in the approximal surface lesions that were within 1 mm of the pulp at baseline. Only 35% of the lesions required any treatment other than topical metal fluoride therapy during the 24‐month period.
Caries of primary teeth and regularity of dental check‐ups
Authors: Milan Anneli , Hausen Hannu , Paunio Ilkka , Heinonen Olli P.
Published: May 2006

Abstract The study consisted of 1332 children representing 81% of a stratified random sample from the Finnish population born in 1970–72. Data on annual dental check‐ups at the age of 2–5 years, caries at the age of 6‐8 years, and social class were obtained by questionnaire from municipal dental clinics. Sixteen percent of the children had had regular (3‐4) check‐ups, 42% occasional (1‐2) check‐ups and 42% no dental check‐ups. Proportion of children with no checkups was somewhat higher in the highest than in the other social classes. Of the children having no reported check‐ups, 27% were entirely caries free; 20% of those having occasional and 20% of those having regular check‐ups were caries free. The mean dmft values among patients with one or more dmf teeth was 5.5 in children with no reported check‐ups, 6.0 and 5.8 in those with occasional or regular check‐ups. The mean of values were 2.9, 2.6 and 2.3, respectively. In cases with no history of check‐ups, the mean ft value among patients with one or more dmf teeth was 2.8, with occasional check‐ups, 3.6, and with regular check‐ups, 3.9. Thus a negative correlation existed between number of annual dental check‐ups and number of untreated caries lesions found in cross‐sectional examination; a positive correlation existed between frequency of check‐ups and fillings found cross‐sectionally. No clear correlation existed between regularity of annual dental check‐ups and past caries experience (dmft).
Caries in 3–5‐year‐old Finnish children participating in public dental care during 1974–79
Authors: Milen Anneli , Hausen Hannu , Tala Heikki , Paunio Ilkka , Heinonen Olli P.
Published: May 2006

Abstract Nationwide and regional participation in the newly started public dental care system, occurrence of caries and proportion of children registered to be in need of restorative treatment during 1974–1979 were studied in 3‐5‐year‐old Finnish children. The data were collected from the annual reports of municipal dental health centers. The mean annual proportion of children participating in the care increased from 27% in 1974 to 71 % in 1979. A clear improvement was noticed in each county, especially in areas where the earlier situation was poor. During the study period an average proportion of entirely caries free children increased from 24% at the beginning lo 57% at the end of the study. The mean annual proportion of children recorded to be in need of restorative care decreased from 61% at the beginning to 32% at the end of the study period. The mean dmft value decreased from 3.7 in 1974 to 1.7 in 1979. A strong inverse relationship existed between the dental health at the beginning of the study period and the extent of changes in dental health during the 6‐year‐period. Thus regional differences have greatly diminished since the introduction of the public dental care system.
Evaluation of a practice based preventive programme for adolescents
Authors: Blinkhorn A. S. , Downer M. C. , Mackie I. C. , Bleasdale R. S.
Published: May 2006

Abstract A field study of a practice based preventive programme was conducted over 18 months in a health centre in a socially deprived urban area. The programme comprised chairside education, including dietary advice and oral hygiene instruction, and a therapeutic intervention based on home consumption of a 1 mg fluoride tablet daily. Participants were 242 boys and girls aged 11–13 years accepting routine dental care. They were allocated at random to a test and control group. Control subjects received all routine operative treatment needed to maintain dental fitness while test subjects received similar routine treatment but with the addition of the preventive regimen. Although the lest subject's knowledge of dental self‐care improved during the course of the study, this was evidently not translated into change of behaviour and no significant differences in dental health between lest and control groups could be detected at the conclusion.
Caries in permanent dentition and social class of children participating in public dental care in fluoridated and nonfluoridated areas
Authors: Hausen Hannu , Heinonen Olli P. , Paunio Ilkaa
Published: May 2006

Abstract A random sample of 7‐16‐year‐old children (n= 2778) who visited municipal dental clinics in fluoridated and nonfluoridated areas was studied. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data on social class and fluoride exposure; caries diagnoses were made by local dentists in municipal dental clinics. Children from the highest social class had the lowest caries frequency in both fluoridated and nonfluoridated areas. Differences between middle and lower class children were small. Water fluoridation had a similar effect in all social classes.
Dental health and treatment needs of 5‐year‐old children in the health area of Lambeth, Southwark and Lewisham, England
Authors: Gibson Auriel , Gelbier Stanley , Bhatia Surendra
Published: May 2006

Abstract 865 children in their first year of full‐time education in the health area of Lambeth, Southwark and Lewisham were examined for dental fitness and treatment requirements. Seventy‐six percent of the subjects examined required treatment for dental caries and the mean dmft was 4.85. Sixteen percent of erupted permanent first molars were carious. 404 children had marginal gingivitis. All the treatment required for gingivitis and 82% for caries could be carried out by dental auxiliaries. The need for preventive measures is discussed.
Dental beliefs, behaviors and health status among Pacific Asians and Caucasians
Authors: Kiyak H. Asuman
Published: May 2006

Abstract A sample of 50 Caucasians and 46 Pacific Asians were asked to describe their beliefs regarding the causes and consequences of dental disease. The relation among dental beliefs, behaviors and oral health status was examined for each ethnic group. Although Caucasians had more accurate knowledge, they reported fewer health behaviors and had poorer oral health than Asians. Asians knew little about dental disease, but were motivated to maintain their teeth by a concern for esthetics, social acceptance and pain. The findings indicate that important cultural differences exist in dental behaviors, and are related to knowledge and motives.
Percentages of lifetime caries experience retained by eight systems of partial DMF‐recording
Authors: Marthaler Thomas M. , Steiner Marcel
Published: May 2006

Abstract Eight partial recording systems were compared. Averages of D(M)FS experience retained by the different systems ranged from 81.0 to 93.6%. The percentages of D(M)FS experience retained varied when the systems were applied on different data on canes occurrence by surfaces. Most systems gave a fairly accurate assessment of the caries reduction in Norwegian schoolchildren due to war‐time dietary restrictions.
Disparities in gingival height in the mandibular central incisor region of children aged 6–12 years
Authors: Powell R. N. , McEniery T. M.
Published: May 2006

Abstract An investigation of disparate gingival heights of the mandibular central incisor region in 93 children aged from 6 to 12 years was undertaken. Unaffected paired teeth demonstrated an age‐associated increase in clinical crown length, similar to previous reports, suggesting a gradual remodelling of soft tissues. Affected teeth displayed a rapid increase in clinical crown length suggesting that by age 10 years true recession had occurred. Significant associations with gingival inflammation (at the 0.1 % level), and with anterior crowding (at the 0.2 % level), occurred. Frenal involvement did not influence the position of the gingival margin.
Assessment of palatal height in children
Authors: Howell Susan
Published: May 2006

Abstract In this study a palatal index (P.I.) was established for 121 randomly selected normal Australian children. Mean P.I. indices were compared in the primary, mixed and permanent dentitions. A subjective assessment of relative palatal height was also carried out by two independent examiners and an attempt was made to examine the reliability of the subjective assessment, and its validity compared with the P.I. Measurements were recorded on stone casts at Level 1 (distal to the primary second molars/second premolars) and Level 2 (between primary first and second molar/first and second premolars). At Level 1 the mean P.I. increased significantly from the primary to the mixed and permanent dentitions. At level 2 the P.I. remained stable. Findings indicate that subjective assessment of relative palatal height was fairly reliable: there was approximately 80% interexaminer and intraexaminer agreement. Subjective assessment of palatal height correlated reasonably well with the P.I.
Influence of X‐ray beam angulation upon the radiographic image of proximal carious lesions
Authors: Sewerin Ib
Published: May 2006

Abstract Twenty‐two extracted human molars and premolars with a total of34 initial proximal carious lesions were radiographed in 16 different views varying the horizontal angulation of the X‐ray beam in steps of 2.5° The radiographs were read simultaneously by three observers. Clinical and radiographic diagnoses were compared. When utilizing all 16 views the concordance was 95%. All proximal surfaces were scored using four scoring classes. Surfaces without radiolucencies were scored 0, and carious surfaces were scored according to the extent of the radiolucencies. Nine sound and 12 carious surfaces were assigned identical scores in all 16 views, while 22 (65%) of the carious surfaces were assigned two, three or four different scores. Deviations from a direction of the X‐ray beam tangential to the proximal surface eliciting a radiographic image belonging to a different score were measured. In 71% of the cases a deviation of 7.5° or less elicited a different score. Projectional circumstances should be taken into consideration in interpreting proximal radiolucencies.
Modification of occurrence of caries in children by toothbrushing and sugar exposure in fluoridated and nonfluoridated areas
Authors: Hausen Hannu , Heinonen Olli P. , Paunio Ilkka
Published: May 2006

AbstractA representative sample (2024 children, 7–16 years old) from fluoridated and nonfluoridated areas was studied. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data on oral health habits; caries diagnoses were made by local dentists in municipal dental clinics. In the fluoridated area a positive correlation existed between toothbrushing frequency and occurrence of dental caries. In the nonfluoridated area the correlation was negative. This difference in the effect of toothbrushing on caries was statistically significant. Sugar exposure increased the difference.
Effect of fluoridation on the cost of dental treatment among urban Scottish schoolchildren
Authors: Downer M. C. , Blinkhorn A. S. , Attwood D.
Published: May 2006

Abstract Dental treatment needs of 230 children aged 4and 5 years and 288aged 9 and 10 years who were lifetime residents of two towns, one fluoridated and the other non‐fluoridated, were costed on the Resource Related Index. This index is based on the British National Health Service scale of fees for general dental practitioners. The overall cost of dental treatment required by 4‐and 5‐year‐olds in the fluoridated community was 45% less than in the non‐fluoridated community. The corresponding difference for 9‐ and 10‐year‐olds was 47%. The differences in the cost of treatment for dental caries only (fillings, extractions and general anesthetics) were 56% in 4‐and 5‐year‐olds and 76% in 9‐and 10‐year‐olds in favour of the fluoridated community. In the latter community, no child examined required denial extractions under general anaesthesia. Certain assumptions made in the study and the implications of the findings in terms of cost savings brought about by fluoridation are discussed.
Characteristics of participants in the oral physiology component 01 the Baltimore longitudinal study of aging
Authors: Baum Bruce J.
Published: May 2006

Abstract This report describes a variety of demographic, socioeconomic and dental characteristics of 254 (145 male, 109 female) participants in a longitudinal study of oral physiology and aging. All individuals are part of the U.S. National Institute on Aging's Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging. Subjects are generally in middle to upper middle socioeconomic strata, well educated and in good health (about 75% not taking prescription medication). Most participants practice regular oral hygiene habits and receive regular and comprehensive dental care. Less than 4% of all subjects are edentulous and the average number of natural teeth present for all participants was about 23. Data are presented on DMFT scores, cervical caries (active and restored) scores and gingival and periodontal disease indices for males by age group (20–39, 40–59, 60–88 years) and for females by menopause status (pre‐, post‐).
Leukoedema – an epidemiologic study with special reference to the influence of tobacco habits
Authors: Axéll Tony , Henricsson Vincent
Published: May 2006

Abstract Among 20 333 individuals aged 15 years and above, examined in urban, suburban and rural regions in the middle of Sweden, leukoedema was found in 48.9%. The sex difference, males 61.9% and females 35.9%, was highly significant (P < 0.001). The condition was most prevalent in the age groups 25–34 and 15–24 years being 60.6 and 57.3%, respectively. Leukoedema was significantly more prevalent among individuals with some daily tobacco habit (60.0%) than among those without (36.3%) (P < 0.001), being most prevalent among smokers. The lesion seemed to be related to the amount of smoking since it was most prevalent among heavy smokers and also the most clearly established lesions were found in this group.
Evaluation of the retention of two types of pit and fissure sealants
Authors: Li Shou‐Hua , Swango Philip A. , Gladsen Andrew N. , Heifetz Stanely B.
Published: May 2006

Abstract The aim of this study was to statistically compare the retention of a chemically polymerized sealant (Delton®, Johnson & Johnson Co., East Windsor, N.J.) with a widely tested UV‐polymerized system (Nuva‐Seal®, L.D. Caulk Co., Milford, Del.) Two hundred children aged 5–16 years who resided in Fairfax County, Virginia (a fluoridated community) and who had one or more pairs of homologous permanent posterior teeth free of decay or fillings were admitted to the study. Posterior teeth on one side of the mouth of each subject were randomly assigned to receive Nuva‐Seal; teeth on the other side were treated with Delton. Treated teeth were examined for sealant loss approximately every 6 months for a period of 2 years. Scores for complete retention of Nuva‐Seal were 86% after 6 months and 78% at the end of 2 years. The corresponding values for Delton‐treated teeth were 96% and 92%. For both sealants, scores of total retention were highest in mandibular first premolars and lowest in mandibular second molars. The greatest rate of sealant loss occurred within the first 6 months after placement. A comparison of overall retention scores (net gain) for Delton and Nuva‐Seal revealed that Delton scores were significantly higher than Nuva‐Seal at each semi‐annual examination. The McNemar test was used to compare the retention of the two sealants for each tooth type. The test showed that the retention scores for Delton were significantly higher than those for Nuva‐Seal only on maxillary and mandibular first molars.
Fluorides for everyone: a review of school‐based or community programs
Authors: Haugejorden O. , Helöe L. A.
Published: May 2006

Abstract Results achieved through the use of fluorides in community or school‐based caries preventive programs are reviewed. Efficacy, efficiency and practical considerations favor programs which require minimal effort for compliance by the beneficiary and which have low‐personnel requirements. Research is needed to determine the possible long‐term effect of, and the preventive regimen necessary to maintain, the benefits of community programs after their discontinuation.
A 5‐year clinical evaluation of the effectiveness of a fissure sealant in mentally retarded Canadian children
Authors: Richardson Beverly A. , Smith Dennis C. , Hargreaves J. Anthony
Published: May 2006

Abstract The occlusal fissures of 812 permanent and primary posterior teeth were sealed with an ultraviolet polymerisable resin. A half mouth technique was used to evaluate the effectiveness of the sealant in the prevention of fissure caries. At the end of 5 years 19.3% of 409 teeth in 103 children had the sealant completely intact and fissures were partially sealed in 20.8%. Retention was greatest in the mandibular pre‐molars. The decay rate was less than half in the treated teeth compared to the control teeth. The net gain was 62 teeth and the percent effectiveness was 57.9%. Thus there was still a highly significant effect of a single application of the fissure sealant after 5 years. Simple cost benefit calculations indicate that the technique is not suitable as a public health measure but has merit for menially retarded persons and in private practice situations.
Possible predictors of dental patients' motivation for cooperation
Authors: Camner Lars , Sandell Rolf , Söder Per‐Östen
Published: May 2006

Abstract In order to find predictors of patient cooperation 40 dentists were asked, in personal interviews, to relate two cases each, one “successful” and one “unsuccessful”, outcome being mainly due to patient's response to motivation efforts. The variables which differentiated must clearly between “successful” and “unsuccessful” cases were, in decreasing order, patient's involvement, patient's psychological state, dentist's involvement, patient's physical state, patient's social relations and patient's general hygiene.
Three‐rooted permanent mandibular first molars in the Thai
Authors: Reichart P. A. , Metah D.
Published: May 2006

Abstract The occurrence of three‐rooted mandibular first molars was studied in the Thai. 19.2% of the mandibular first molars extracted from 364 Thai patients revealed an additional distal root, an incidence which is comparable with data from other races of Mongoloid extraction. The clinical significance of such molars is discussed briefly.
Sugar availability, sugar consumption and dental caries
Authors: Sreebny Leo M.
Published: May 2006

Abstract This study was conducted to update our knowledge about the relation between sugar consumption and dental caries in nations throughout the world. Data on the prevalence of dental caries for 6‐ and 12‐year‐old children in, respectively, 23 and 47 nations were obtained from the World Health Organization's Global Oral Epidemiology Bank. Information on sugar supplies was obtained from Food Balance Sheet data prepared by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. The study indicates that for the 12‐, but not for the 6‐, year‐old children there is a significant positive correlation between the per capita availability of sugar and dental caries. The data also suggest that the availability, and presumably the ingestion, of 50 g of sugar per day may represent an outer limit of “safe” or “acceptable” sugar consumption. Furthermore, a comparison of data obtained from Food Balance Sheets for the per capita daily “consumption” of sugar with data for consumption obtained from Household Consumption Surveys in six countries, shows that these data collection methods frequently do not give comparable results. Accurate, total, age‐specific consumption figures with information on frequency and the manner of use are needed if the relationship between oral disease and dietary sugar is to be clarified.
Effects of fluoride and regular dental care on personal dental expenditures of young adults in Finland
Authors: Alvesalo Ilpo , Reisine Susan , Hay Joel , Bailit Howard L.
Published: May 2006

Abstract This paper analyzes the relationship among presence of fluoride in the drinking water, oral health and dental expenditures in four towns in Finland. A two‐stage least‐squares model is used to determine the effect of fluoridated water and other independent variables on the number of missing teeth and per capita annual dental service expenditures for 555 adults. The results show that regularity of dental visits is the only significant factor explaining per capita expenditures. In contrast, many factors affect the number of missing teeth; most importantly, the number of dentists per capita, level of fluoride, age, education, use of services and smoking habits. These findings suggest I hat fluoride significantly improves oral health status but does not reduce adult per capita dental expenditures.