bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of taurodontism found in radiographic dental examination of 1,200 young adult Israeli patients
Authors: Shifman Arie , Chanannel Itzchak
Published: May 2006

abstract The prevalence of taurodontism was studied radiographically in 1,200 young adult Israeli patients. In order to differentiate taurodont teeth from normal teeth, three types of taurodontism (meso‐, hypo‐ and hypertaurodontism) were defined in biometric terms, using radiographic features of molar morphology. All three types according to Shaw's classification were seen. Taurodontism was found to occur in 5.6% of 1,200 individuals and in 1.5% of the 10,204 molar teeth examined. The mandibular second molar was found to be the most prone, being involved in two thirds of all cases found. Hypertaurodontism was found only in three cases, in the third molars. The condition was seen to involve single and multiple teeth, both unilaterally and bilaterally, with the latter being most predominant.
Prevalence of malocclusion in relation to premature loss of primary teeth
Authors: Pedersen Jytte , Stensgaard Kathrine , Melsen Birte
Published: May 2006

abstract The influence of premature extraction of primary teeth on the frequency of malocclusion was analyzed. The patient group comprised 723 children in the 3rd grade school class, 324 of whom had experienced early loss of primary teeth due to caries. The following malocclusion traits were analyzed: cistal occlusion, maxillary overjet, overbite, frontal open bite, midline displacement, and crossbite. The frequency of the single malocclusion traits was compared between groups of children without and with loss of primary teeth. The influence of the site of extraction was analyzed by studying the frequency of malocclusion in the group of children with extraction in the mandible or maxilla only. It was found that early loss of primary teeth would result in an increased frequency of sagittal, vertical as well as transversal malocclusion. As a consequence the need for treatment would increase significantly by early extraction of primary teeth. Whereas extraction in the maxilla would tend to result in need for extraction of permanent teeth; extraction in the mandible would often lead to need for orthodontic treatment of longer duration. On the basis of these findings it could be concluded that maintaining a high standard of dental service for preschool children must be considered good economy, since the need for premature extractions is reduced.
Dental health status and treatment needs of students at a disadvantaged secondary school, Victoria, Australia – 1975
Authors: Spencer A. J.
Published: May 2006

Abstract The dental health status and treatment needs of 302 secondary school students (182 boys, 120 girls: age range 11–16 years) were surveyed. Restorative, exodontic, periodontic, prosthetic, and orthodontic treatment needs were assessed at the time of examination. The dental health status was poor and the amount of treatment needed was high. Treatment needs increased with age and were dominated by restorative work. The average student required 19.8 relative value units of work, taking 23/4 hours and costing A$ 93.00.
Influence of social norms on toothbrushing behavior of preschool children
Authors: Blinkhorn Anthony S.
Published: May 2006

Abstract Two hundred and eighty mothers of preschool children were interviewed in order to determine first, their children's toothbrushing habits and secondly, their expectations concerning the brushing behavior of preschool children in general. The influence of social and demographic factors on children's brushing behavior was also investigated. The results showed that the practice of toothbrushing is widespread and mothers play the central role in teaching the brushing routine. However, the social norms concerning oral hygiene were imprecise, indicating that mothers had no social support for teaching their children to brush and no information on how brushing should be carried out. Dental health educators should encourage mothers of young children to develop positive attitudes towards toothbrushing and teach them the correct technique.
A comparison of WHO Periodontal Status Index with the Periodontal and Oral Hygiene Indices
Authors: Cutress T. W. , Hunter P. B. V. , Beck D. J. , de Souza P.
Published: May 2006

Abstract Examination of 2,138 subjects, aged 15–65+ years, was carried out by calibrated examiners using mirrors and fibre optic illumination. Each subject was scored by the Periodontal Status Index, PSI (WHO Oral Health Surveys), Periodontal Index, PI (Russell) and the Oral Hygiene Index, OHI (Greene & Vermillion). For the PSI, PI and OHI all scores were age‐dependent with the exception of soft deposits in PSI and OHI, which were age‐independent. The advantages of the PSI system were considered to be the ease of scoring and the opportunity to assess treatment requirements, in terms of time, at the public health service level. Disadvantages were lack of quantitation, difficulties of diagnosis of intense gingivitis, and localized and general conditions. The PI and OHI systems provided a more objective, quantitative and sensitive basis of scoring than the PSI. Statistical tests showed that respective indices are associated and measuring the same kind of criteria. Examiner calibration and consistency were similar for both scoring systems.
Variability of gingival bleeding in experimental gingivitis trials
Authors: Watts Trevor L. P.
Published: May 2006

abstract Gingival bleeding is a difficult parameter to assess in experimental trials. The Confirmed Bleeding Day was recently developed as a measurement for this purpose. It was observed that considerable variations existed between the measurements made in a pilot study and an experimental trial, and these variations were subjected to a statistical analysis. The reasons for the variations are discussed, and recommendations made for the design of experimental trials involving gingival bleeding.
Dental hygienists in Poland
Authors: Jańczuk Zbigniew
Published: May 2006

Abstract The activities of dental hygienists in Poland since 1974 are described. About 600 dental hygienists graduated in Poland up to 1977 but only 32 % of them are still working in the profession. Their main activities are: dental health education, fluoride prophylaxis and assisting in dental clinics. Although the work of about 50 % of the hygienists is poorly organized, they are regarded as useful in dental care by 23 Heads of district dental clinics who employ dental hygienists.
Saliva‐based colorimetric test as an index of gingival inflammation in epidemiologic studies
Authors: Burt Brian A. , Roder David M. , Cecil James C. , Eklund Stephen A.
Published: May 2006

Abstract There is a pressing need for a reliable, low‐cost method of assessing the gingival and periodontal status of large population groups. Existing indexes, despite their value in dental public health, are still too subject to examiner variability for use by uncalibrated examiners. This study describes an evaluation of a quick, inexpensive, extraoral colorimetric test for gingival inflammation, based on a reaction between saliva and the test material. It could probably be applied by non‐professional personnel. In this study, the test was applied to a population of elementary schoolchildren, denial hygiene students and faculty, and adult inmates of two correctional institutions. These populations were chosen on the assumption that they would exhibit varying intensities of gingival inflammation. Values obtained from the colorimetric test carried out by one researcher were compared with Gingival Index (GI) scores observed by a different examiner. Results suggest that the colorimetric test may be a valid, reliable means of detecting major differences in the prevalence of gingival inflammation in most adult populations, although having little, if any, useful application among children at the mixed dentition stage.
Oral cancer and precancer as diseases of the aged
Authors: Pindborg Jens J.
Published: May 2006

Abstract Some cancers, especially sarcomas, favor younger age groups, whereas others, particularly carcinomas, are most likely to develop in older age groups. The relative frequency, mortality and morbidity rates are defined using lip and tongue cancer as examples. The paper demonstrates how oral cancer rates increase with age. For tongue cancer there is a worsening of the prognosis with advancing age. The synergistic effect of tobacco and alcohol and its relation to age is also dealt with. For leukoplakia there is also a higher rate with increasing age, although there is a shift towards younger ages when compared with oral cancer. Tobacco, age and leukoplakia are also discussed. The increased cancer and precancer rate in older people may be due to age changes in the oral mucosa making it more vulnerable to the action of carcinogens.
Prevalence and awareness of malocclusion in Swedish men
Authors: Ingervall Bengt , Mohlin Bengt , Thilander Birgit
Published: May 2006

Abstract Previous orthodontic treatment, the awareness of malocclusion, the demand for orthodontic treatment and the prevalence of malocclusion were studied in 389 Swedish men, aged 21–54 years (mean age 32 years). Nine percent had been treated with an orthodontic appliance and 15% reported that permanent teeth had been extracted on orthodontic indications. Malposition of teeth was found in 75 %, with rotation as the most common type of malposition. Crowding was recorded in 43 % and spacing in 18%. Fifty‐seven percent had some occlusal anomaly. The need for orthodontic treatment was rated on a four‐point scale. It. was found that 76% were in need of treatment. The need for treatment was only slight in half of the men but moderate to urgent in 25% of the sample. About a quarter of the men were aware of malposition of front teeth, equally often for maxillary and mandibular teeth, but only about 1 % were aware of malposition of posterior teeth. Only a few percent thought they were in need of orthodontic treatment. The presence of malocclusion was correlated to age, place of birth and educational level. This might perhaps be a consequence of tooth loss.
Dental caries and fluorosis in Arussi province, Ethiopia
Authors: Olsson Berit
Published: May 2006

Abstract A dental health survey was carried out in the Arussi province in Ethiopia. The survey comprised 1,700 persons between 6 and 54 years of age in five age groups from four areas of the province. The present paper deals with findings on dental fluorosis and dental caries. Dental fluorosis was found in 18 % of the subjects, mainly in a very mild form. The fluoride content of the water (0.2‐0.3 part/106 F‐) in combination with a high tea consumption was assumed to give a fluoride intake optimal for caries prevention. The prevalence of dental caries was low. Thirty‐eight percent of the 6–7‐year‐old group had decayed primary teeth and 51 % of the total sample had decayed permanent teeth. Comparisons with a study from 1958 revealed that the prevalence of dental caries had increased in the last few decades, probably due to the recently adopted habit of using sugar in the diet.
Co‐ordination of the school and general dental services in Rochdale, England
Authors: Doyle A. J. , Renner W. A. A. , Mellor J.
Published: May 2006

The administrative process in the implementation of a scheme of co‐operation between the school and general dental practitioner services to screen and treat children aged 14 years and above in an Area Health Authority is described. 84 % of the target group were screened in periods amounting (o 12 months. The uptake of treatment as assessed by return of notices of referral was only 1.5 %. Interview of a sample of those referred revealed that 49 % had been to a dentist within 6 months and of these 34 % would not have otherwise attended. 13 % had taken referral forms to practitioners. The implications of these findings are discussed and a more effective means of evaluating treatment uptake is proposed.
Dental health situation in privileged children in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Olsson Berit
Published: May 2006

Two hundred children 6–7 and 13–14 years of age from private schools in Addis Ababa were examined for oral deposits, periodontal condition, dental fluorosis, and dental caries. The findings indicated a higher level of both periodontal disease and dental caries in the privileged children than in previously surveyed nonprivileged children in Ethiopia. This difference was attributed to a higher sucrose intake in the privileged group. The findings may illustrate a dental health situation that will inevitably develop in Ethiopia with a continuous increase in the sucrose consumption.
Public opinions on dentists in Norway
Authors: Skogedal Ole , Helöe Leif Arne
Published: May 2006

Interviews on the dentist‐patient relationship were carried out among 1,221 persons representing the dentulous part of the Norwegian population aged 15 and over. Two thirds of the interviewees said that their dentists explained the treatment plan, and of these, every second interviewee received reasons for the treatment. One third said they discussed different treatment alternatives with the dentist. One third of the respondents said that the dentist had urged them to clean their teeth thoroughly and to use fluoride. Only a minority thought that the dentist had sought to influence their dietary habits. When asked to give priority to alternative characteristics and qualities of dentists, accuracy and professional skills were those ranked the highest. Carefulness, willingness to listen and to discuss dental problems, and finally effective working habits were the qualities ranked thereafter. Out of the sample, 96% thought that their dentist did very good or good work, and 82% wanted to choose their own dentist.
Attitudes concerning water fluoridation among graduating Swedish dentists
Authors: Petterson Elof O.
Published: May 2006

The purpose of the investigation was to assess the attitudes concerning water fluoridation among Swedish dentists just having completed their dental education. All senior dental students (168) at the four Swedish dental schools were handed a questionnaire during the last week of November 1974. By the end of February 1975, 98 % of the respondents, now dentists, had returned their questionnaires. Water fluoridation was considered by the average respondent to be quite economical and effective but only slightly advisable; 72% expressed approval and support of water fluoridation; 15% expressed indecisiveness; 12% expressed negative views. The negative attitudes were associated with misconceptions concerning economy, technical efficiency, safety, and effectiveness. Many respondents, even those who expressed support of water fluoridation, displayed misconceptions concerning the effectiveness of water fluoridation in relation to topical application of fluorides and to the administration of fluoride tablets.
Recent reorganization of the Public Dental Health Service in Greenland in favor of caries prevention*
Authors: Jakobsen Jan
Published: May 2006

The Danish dental health service in Greenland has not succeeded in its attempts to subdue a steadily growing caries problem in this rapidly changing society; surveys from 1974 and 1977 show that DMFS indices in this country are among the highest in the world. A comparison between the 1974 and 1977 surveys indicates that the DMFS indices reached a maximum around 1974. Pressing needs for other health services have left only small resources for a reorganization of the dental health service; at the same time, a certain lack of initial administrative support has hampered design and implementation of an adequate preventive program. Recently, a comprehensive plan for the training in Greenland of Greenlandic auxiliary personnel was put into effect, but at a time of economic depression. As a consequence, the dental health service now finds itself compelled to limit its previous scope of “comprehensive care”, to be able to spend a reasonable part of existing resources on preventive programs utilizing indigenous auxiliary personnel.
Interpretation of a Cauchy distribution function describing cumulative caries prevalence curves
Authors: Adler P. , Szabó Z.
Published: May 2006

The half life was used, as the common denominator, in comparing serial epidemiologic records of dental caries, and two mathematical models describing cumulative caries prevalence curves. Relying upon half spans, the connections with the caries susceptibilities of the individual teeth of the three age‐, tooth‐, and sex‐specific parameters of a transformed and modified are tan function were analyzed. The parameters a and b were directly proportional to the caries susceptibility, whereas an inverse proportionality of c was shown. The location of the inflection point of the individual curves was determined mathematically, and similarly of that point where the curve was truncated at its left tail. The cut off portion had a positive value with some teeth, indicating the latent period in the formation of a carious lesion, but a negative value with others. These truncated curves thus start from 0 prior to posteruptive tooth‐age 0; this inconsistency is due to the inherent defect of the prevalence curves. Relying upon half life spans, the connections with the caries susceptibilities Life Tables compiled by other investigators: posteruptive tooth‐age 0 was not determined by repeated serial examinations of the children in short intervals but was calculated from records with a mean interval of 13 months between successive examinations. Relying on the half life spans, and using the caries prevalence figures of the Life Tables, the exponential model preferred hitherto, and the proposed Cauchy model (with its left tail truncated) were compared. There was no overlapping between groups of teeth of clinically equal susceptibilities. An excellent fit of these two models was found with the empirical data using the least squares method, without any disadvantage of the Cauchy function. The relative increments of decay of these models, however, were properly reflected only by the Cauchy model.
Caries experience of Danish children evaluated by the Child Dental Health recording system
Authors: Schwarz Eli , Hansen Erik Randers
Published: May 2006

The purpose of this report is to describe certain features of the child dental health care in Denmark. The caries picture and the caries distribution pattern in Danish children aged 2–15 years are demonstrated and some regional variations are analyzed. The study is based on epidemiologic data collected in the school year 1977–78 from about 500 000 children being treated in accordance with the Child Dental Care Act. The data collection is being effectuated annually under a child dental health recording system, and the aim and function of this system is discussed. The mean defs‐ and DMFS‐indices are illustrated for individual age groups reflecting the natural history of dental caries. Certain trends in relation to different geographical distributional of caries and in relation to different cohorts of children from 1972 to 1977 are discussed. The analysis of the caries picture is extended by means of the distribution pattern according to caries severity zones. Finally, the use of caries epidemiologic data for planning and resource allocation purposes is illustrated and some policy implications for the development of the child dental health services in Denmark are discussed.
Occurrence of plaque, gingivitis and caries as related to self reported frequency of toothbrushing in fluoride areas in Finland
Authors: Ainamo Jukka , Parviainen Kaarina
Published: May 2006

Abstract Toothbrushing is generally recommended as one of the main means of preventing dental caries and periodontal problems. The present study was an attempt to evaluate the validity of such a claim. In three Finnish towns with low (0.2 part/106), optimal (1.0 part/106) and high (2.5 parts/106) fluoride content in their drinking water, about 40 schoolchildren were examined in each age group of 13, 14 and 15 years. A total of 365 children were first interviewed about their oral health habits, including frequency of toothbrushing. Their teeth were then scored for visible plaque (VPI), gingival bleeding (GBI) and past caries experience (DFS). The total mean scores for the children were VPI = 43 %, GBI = 40 %, and DFS = 14.5. Girls were found to brush more often than boys. About 50 % of the girls and only 10 % of the boys reported brushing their teeth more often than once daily. Among the girls the frequency of toothbrushing significantly increased from age 13 to 15. In all groups high frequencies of toothbrushing were associated with low VPI and GBI scores. No correlation was found between the frequency of toothbrushing and the DFS scores of the children. This lack of correlation persisted also after the total material was grouped according to sex, age, and fluoride content of drinking water. The results indicate that uncontrolled toothbrushing helps to prevent periodontal disorders but has no measureable effect on dental caries.
Two years' effect on the primary dentition of mouthrinsing with a 0.2% neutral NaF solution
Authors: Ripa Louis W. , Leske Gary S.
Published: May 2006

Abstract The benefits to the primary teeth from a school‐based fluoride mouthrinsing program are presented. Children in grades 1‐4, residents of a fluoride‐deficient community in New York, rinsed an average of 49 times during 2 school years using a 0.2 % neutral NaF solution. Rinsing was done under the supervision of homeroom teachers. Differences in caries prevalence of 20.0% (dfs/child) or 23.8% (dfs/100s) were found in children who participated in the rinsing program for 2 years compared with baseline canes scores of children who never rinsed. Surface specific differences in caries prevalence after 2 years were: 27.5% for proximal surfaces, 24.1 % for buccolingual surfaces, and 12.4% for occlusal surfaces.
Evaluation of a pit‐ and fissure‐sealing program in a public dental health service after 2 years
Authors: Poulsen S. , Thylstrup A. , Christensen P. F. , Ishøy Ulla
Published: May 2006

Abstract The aim of the present study was to test the caries‐preventive effect of a bis‐GMA type fissure sealant (Concise Enamel Bond System®) in a public dental health service for children. The study compared one group of children, in which all sound permanent teeth were sealed, and a control group in which no sealants were placed. During the study period all children received systematic restorative care, while sealing was performed on the basis of diagnoses made at subsequent examinations by one of the authors. After 2 years a total of 187 children were available for re‐examination. Sealant retention was comparable to that obtained in previous studies, but no statistically significant reduction in overall caries increment could be demonstrated. Further analysis showed that only 223 sites (had been sealed, while the majority of all erupting sites (394) were either carious or filled before they were screened for the purpose of sealing. It is therefore assumed that only teeth less susceptible to occlusal decay were sealed, thereby explaining the lack of benefit derived from the sealing program.
Oral health of Rhodesia African first year student teachers
Authors: Ritchie James
Published: May 2006

Abstract A basic oral health survey was carried out on a random sample of first year African student teachers attending four teachers' colleges in Rhodesia. The number examined and interviewed was 309. Methods and criteria used are those described in the second (1977) edition of the World Health Organization manual Oral health surveys – Basic methods Prevalences of dental caries were 31.0 % for the 142 male students and 59.5 % for the 167 female students. The difference is statistically significant (P < 0.001). Mean DMFTs were 0.74 for men and 2.02 for women. The prevalences of “intense gingivitis” were 52.8 % for male students and 34.7 % for female students. This difference also is significant (P < 0.005). The major treatment requirements are for one‐surface fillings and prophylaxis with oral hygiene instruction. Dental service utilization is low. Less than 10 % of the sample had obtained dental care in the previous 12 months. The main reason for seeking care was pain. Self‐assessments of oral health needs were not valid. The stated desire for fillings is greater than for extractions. A need has been demonstrated for denial health education aimed at the prevention of disease and the encouragement, use and demand for quality care services.
Characteristics and experiences of women with and without full dentures in a city of the Netherlands
Authors: Engels M. , Tijmstra T.
Published: May 2006

Abstract A combined dental and sociological study was completed in Leeuwarden in 1976. Approximately 600 children filled in a questionnaire and were dentally examined. Their mothers were also interviewed. 536 mothers took part in the study; of these, 45 % had full dentures and only 33 % still had a normal dentition. These two groups of mothers have been compared in this article. There was very little difference between the mean ages of the two groups, but a considerable difference in education, family income and the husband's occupation. Women with full dentures used to visit the dentist less frequently when young. There also was a slightly more sceptical attitude as to possible preservation of teeth among those who did not succeed in keeping their natural teeth. A description of some of the characteristics and the experiences of the two groups, those with and those without dentures, has also been included. The group of women with full dentures were rather satisfied about their dental state although even a part of this group still have problems with their dentures. The group of women still having natural teeth were fairly optimistic about the state of their teeth and their expectancy of the need for dental care in the future.
Second primary cancers in patients with carcinoma of the lip
Authors: Lindqvist C. , Pukkala E. , Teppo L.
Published: May 2006

Abstract The occurrence of second primary cancers in patients with lip cancer was evaluated in order to test certain etiologic hypotheses. All cases of lip cancer reported to the Finnish Cancer Registry in 1953–74 (3303 men, 320 women) were followed up for a second (or third) primary cancer through the files of the Registry either to death or to 31 December 1974 (a total of 25510 person‐years). The expected numbers of cases were calculated on the basis of the incidence rates specific for sex, age, time and residence (urban or rural) in Finland. A higher than expected risk of cancer was found among both urban and rural male lip cancer patients; among women the observed number of new primary cancers did not differ from that expected. A significant excess risk among males was noted for cancers of the lung and larynx (rural patients) and for non‐melanomatous skin cancer in locations other than the head and neck (urban patients). The association of cancers of the lip, lung and larynx found earlier on a geographic level supports the hypothesis that tobacco smoking is a common risk factor in these cancers. The differences in the relative risks between urban and rural patients, however, suggest that the risk factors in lip cancer in urban areas might be partially different from those prevalent in the rural population. The results do not support the hypothesis that sunlight is an important risk factor in lip cancer.
Effect of a fluoride varnish (Duraphat®) in preschool children
Authors: Holm Anna‐Karin
Published: May 2006

Abstract The caries‐preventive effect of semiannual applications of a fluoride varnish (Duraphat®) was tested for 2 years in 225 3‐year‐old children; 113 children sewed as a control group. At the baseline examination, 69% of the children in the test group and 75 % in the control group were caries‐free. The results after 2 years showed an average caries increment of 2.1 surfaces in the test group and 3.7 in the control group. The difference is statistically significant. Thirty‐eight percent of the children in the test group and 27 % in the control group were still caries‐free. The caries reduction was 44 %.
Effectiveness of combined preventive methods on erupting teeth in children in a fluoridated community
Authors: Bagramian Robert A. , Srivastava Sujan , Graves Richard C.
Published: May 2006

Abstract Several preventive methods were used in combination to reduce dental caries in children residing in a fluoridated area. The methods included dental health education, prophylaxis, pit and fissure sealants, topical fluoride and restorative care. Prophylaxis, sealant and fluoride procedures were repeated every 6 months. Sealant was applied to all fully erupted caries free posterior teeth in the mouth. This report compares results obtained for teeth that erupted after the study began with those teeth that were already present at the time treatment procedures were applied. Percent reductions in caries increment for newly erupted teeth at the end of 3 years for treated 6th graders was 77.5 % in DMFT and 79.2% DMFS as compared to 71 % and 58.3 % for previously erupted teeth. Results for children in 1st grade did not show such beneficial results. Permanent first molars in younger children appear to be highly susceptible to caries. Sealant retention for newly erupted teeth follows the same pattern as for teeth previously erupted.
Relationship between age, dental status and regular dental care in Norway illustrated by a model
Authors: Holst Dorthe
Published: May 2006

Abstract The purpose of this paper was to describe the relationship between age, dental status, and patterns of dental visits. Data from a national health survey of 11 014 persons in Norway 1975 were used. The model shows that though the absolute number of regular attenders decreased with increasing age their relative number among dentate persons increased with increasing age. Different examples of how the model may be used are described. Finally three explanations are given of the dental attendance pattern among Norwegian adults.
How dental conditions handicap the elderly
Authors: Smith Joyce M. , Sheiham Aubrey
Published: May 2006

Abstract A sociodental investigation was carried out among 254 elderly people living at home in Nottinghamshire. The aim of the inquiry was to ascertain whether this group of people were handicapped by their dental conditions. The dental status of the sample was generally poor. 74% were edentulous and the condition of the full dentures worn by many of the subjects was unsatisfactory. A high proportion (59%) of the subjects had lesions of the oral mucosa. Many members of the sample were orally handicapped, either functionally or socially. 32% complained of oral pain and 30% claimed to have difficulty chewing. Also, subjects were embarrassed by the appearance of their teeth and by their dentures dropping during social contact. The perception of handicap, however, was not strongly related to dental status.
Variation in caries recording and restorative treatment plan among university teachers
Authors: Rytömaa Inkeri , Järvinen Varpu , Järvinen Jaana
Published: May 2006

Abstract Ten voluntary dental students were examined by 12 teachers at the same dental clinic. Eleven items of data were subjected to a two‐way analysis of variance: missing teeth, filled teeth, filled teeth surfaces, DMF and DMFS index scores, decayed surfaces (first (C 1) and second (C 2) degree caries), decayed surfaces (C 2 only), decayed approximal surfaces (C 2), decayed occlusal surfaces (C 2), decayed smooth surfaces (C 2), and teeth considered to require treatment. Significant differences were found between the subjects for all 11 items assessed. The differences between the examiners were not significant for missing teeth, filled teeth, filled surfaces, and decayed smooth surfaces, but for the other items the between‐examiner variation was significant at the level P<0.01. In particular, great variation was found in the plans for reparative care. It is suggested that teachers should undergo a special training program in order to make more consistent clinical judgments and hence to reduce the between‐dentist variation in postgraduate clinical practice. This would probably be beneficial to the patients.
Periodontal disease and oral hygiene in a group of blind and sighted Israeli teenagers (14–17 years of age)
Authors: Anaise Joseph Z.
Published: May 2006

Abstract The purpose of the present study was to obtain up‐to‐date information on periodontal disease and oral hygiene status in Israel among 9th to 12th grade non‐blind students and among the inmates of six schools for the blind aged 14–17 years. 460 sighted and 434 blind students participated in the study. The examination was for periodontal status and oral hygiene only. Periodontal status was recorded according to Russell's Periodontal Index (PI). Oral hygiene was assessed according to Greene & Vermillion's Simplified Oral Hygiene Index (OHI‐S). Mean PI for the non‐blind group was found to be 0.23, and for the blind students 0.79. Partially blind students were found to have a lower mean PI value than the totally blind. PI values did not increase significantly with age. Blind students exhibited a fair‐to‐poor level of oral hygiene (according to Greene & Vermillion's categorization). Relatively healthier levels of oral hygiene were found in the partially blind as compared with the totally blind. Mean OHI‐S did not vary with age in either group.
A 3‐year clinical trial into the effect of fluoride content and toothpaste abrasivity on the caries inhibitory properties of a dentifrice
Authors: Murray John J. , Shaw Linda
Published: May 2006

The effect of reducing the abrasivity of toothpaste on dental caries was observed in a 3‐year clinical trial involving 1106 11–13‐year‐old Berkshire schoolchildren. The children were divided into three groups; Group 1 were allocated a low abrasivity paste containing 0.8% sodium monofluorophosphate, Group 2 a paste of conventional abrasivity also containing 0.8% sodium monofluorophosphate and Group 3 a low abrasivity non‐fluoride paste. After 3 years the net DMFS increments (clinical and radiographic scores combined) were 4.22 in Group 1, 4.72 in Group 2 and 6.43 in Group 3. The differences between Groups 1 and 3 and between Groups 2 and 3 were highly significant (P < 0.001). The mean increment in Group 1 was lower than in Group 2 but did not reach statistical significance. Reducing the abrasivity of the toothpaste had no meaningful effect on the standard of oral hygiene and prevalence of gingivitis as measured by the Gingival and Plaque Indices.
Diagonal half‐mouth recording of restorative and exodontic needs
Authors: Spencer Andrew John
Published: May 2006

Partial recording of dental caries prevalence and incidence has been frequently recommended and employed. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that the partial recording of restorative and exodonlic needs using an alternating diagonal half‐mouth examination gives results which can accurately represent complete recording. Diagonal half‐mouth recording was simulated by computer and gave results which closely represented the complete recording of the same sample of subjects. Partial recording lost a low proportion of the information collected by complete recording. Less frequently observed items of treatment showed highest proportions of information loss. If increases in the number of subjects in a sample can be achieved clue to reductions in resources required for each subject, a proportional loss of information may be turned to a proportional gain of information. Reasons for the current recommendations against a diagonal half‐mouth examination for the recording of restorative and exodontic needs are postulated and discussed.
Evaluation of a calibration trial to increase interexaminer reliability of radiographic diagnosis of approximal carious lesions
Authors: Poulsen S. , Bille J. , Rugg‐Gunn A. J.
Published: May 2006

Eighteen dentists working in the same School Dental Service participated in a calibration trial with the purpose of reducing interexaminer disagreement on radiographic diagnosis of approximal caries. The calibration program was in two stages: firstly, discussion in small groups and, secondly, the use of a reference standard. The effect of the training programs on interexaminer disagreement was limited, but a statistically significant decrease in the number of D‐surfaces recorded per child was observed. The finding that the major part of the error variance was due to random error, rather than systematic error, may explain why the calibration program was unsuccessful at reducing error.
Prevalence of dental caries among workers in the sweets industry in Israel
Authors: Anaise Joseph Z.
Published: May 2006

The purpose of the present study was to assemble data on the prevalence of dental caries among workers in the sweets industry. Three confectionaries were selected for the study. Most employees consented to be examined and were included in the study. The participants were distributed into two main groups: production line workers (228 participants) and non‐production line workers (195 participants). The control group consisted of a group of production line workers from five textile industrial establishments; 812 in all. The results indicate that the mean DMFT values recorded for the sweets industry workers were significantly higher than those recorded for the control group. Significantly higher mean DMFT values recorded in the production line workers, as compared with the non‐production line workers, in the confectionary industry were assumed to be attributed to a higher consumption of sweets and closer exposure to sugar dust. Mean DMFT values were found to increase significantly in relation to the duration of exposure to the effect of carbohydrates in both groups of workers in the sweets industry.
Caries susceptibility of permanent first and second molars in children aged 5–15 years
Authors: King Nigel M. , Shaw Linda , Murray John J.
Published: May 2006

Clinical examinations of 276 5‐year‐old children were carried out twice yearly for 2 1/2 years, and a further 1104 11‐12‐year‐old children were examined annually for 3 years. Fifty per cent of permanent first molar teeth had erupted by 6.4 years; the mean age of eruption for permanent second molar teeth was 12.2 years. One year after these mean eruption dates over 10% of first molars and 45% of second permanent molars were already carious. Although development of caries was initially slower in permanent first molars, between the ages of 7.5 and 8.5 years the caries increment rose to 18.8%. By the age of 15 years the DMF Was 92% for first and 68% for second molar teeth. The missing and filled proportion of the total DMF rose consistently. This represents the amount of treated caries and exceeded the amount of untreated caries in permanent first molars at all age levels. The rate of caries initiation in the present investigation emphasizes that restorative programmes and preventive regimens for children must be based on frequent recall examinations of not more than 6‐monthly intervals.
Longitudinal study of oral hygiene and dietary habits among immigrant children in Sweden
Authors: Aurelius Göran , Lindström Bo
Published: May 2006

Families immigrating to Sweden from Finland and Southern Europe (Greece, Yugoslavia, and Turkey), as well as Swedish control families of the same social class, were interviewed twice on their children's oral hygiene and dietary habits and on the parents' knowledge of oral health. The first interview was made on the immigrants' arrival in Sweden and the second one 30 months later. The material comprised 35 Finnish, 23 South‐European and 54 Swedish families. During the observation period more immigrant than control children had complained about toothache. The frequency of toothbrushing was lower among the immigrants than among the Swedes at both interviews. The frequency of sweets consumption was significantly higher among the immigrants. Fewer immigrant than Swedish children had been examined or treated by a dentist before the first interview. There was no difference between the immigrants and the controls in channels of information about oral hygiene, the schools and the dentists being (he foremost source of information for both groups. The Swedish parents had a more competent knowledge of oral hygiene than the parents of the immigrant children. It was concluded that Finnish and South‐European immigrant children definitely have a great need of preventive dentistry.
Effects of supervised daily dental plaque removal by children after 3 years
Authors: Horowitz Alice M. , Suomi John D. , Peterson John K. , Mathews Barbara L. , Voglesong Ronald H. , Lyman Beverly A.
Published: May 2006

The benefits of a school‐based plaque removal program are presented. Children in grades 5‐8 were included in a study which was designed to determine the effect on oral hygiene, gingival inflammation and dental caries of removing dental plaque through supervised daily flossing and toothbrushing in school. A fluoride‐free dentifrice was used. Controls did not receive instruction in plaque removal procedures nor did they engage in plaque removal activities at school. For three school years the students in the treatment group practiced daily plaque removal, supervised by trained personnel. All participants were examined initially for plaque (PHP), gingival inflammation (DHC) and dental caries (DMFS). Girls in the treatment group showed a significant reduction (28%) in mean plaque scores and, for girls and boys, the mean changes in gingivitis scores were significantly reduced (40% and 17%, respectively). Adjusted mean incremental DMF surface scores were 13 % lower in the treatment group than in the control group. The difference between groups was not statistically significant and was accounted for entirely by the findings in mesial and distal surfaces (26%). This difference approached statistical significance (P= 0.07).
A program of self‐administered fluorides in a rural school system
Authors: Horowitz Herschel S. , Heifetz Stanley B. , Meyers Rhea J. , Driscoll Williams S. , Li Shou‐Hua
Published: May 2006

In 1972, a self‐administered fluoride program was initiated in Nelson County, VA, a fluoride‐deficient area. Children in elementary school (grades K‐6) ingest daily a 1‐mg fluoride tablet, rinse weekly with 0.2% NaF solution and receive fluoride dentifrice for home use. In 1978, dental examinations of elementary schoolchildren (ages 6‐12) who had continuously participated in the program for 1 to 6 years showed a prevalence of 2.70 DMFS, 45 % lower than the score of 4.89 DMFS for their cohorts at the baseline. The preventive program inhibited dental caries effectively in all types of surfaces, but the reduction in proximal surfaces of 85% is particularly striking. Findings of high school children (ages 13‐17) in 1978, who had not participated in the elementary school program for 1‐5 years, showed evidence of strong post‐treatment effects. At each succeeding follow‐up survey, benefits have continued to improve. For elementary school participants, benefits were 17.7%after2years, 35.3% after 4 years and 44.8% after 6 years. Weekly fluoride mouthrinsing and daily ingestion of a fluoride tablet are feasible school‐based procedures for the prevention of dental caries. Combined with the use of a fluoride dentifrice at home, these procedures have a pronounced cariostatic effect.
Answers from dentists, dental hygienists and dental assistants to questions asked by patients concerning preventive dental matters
Authors: Eijkman M. A. J. , de With C.
Published: May 2006

142 dentists, 21 dental hygienists and 35 dental assistants were asked lo fill in a questionnaire which consisted of 40 questions about preventive dental matters regularly asked by Dutch dental patients. The 40 questions were submitted to experts in the field of preventive dentistry. The experts were in agreement on 26 questions. It was decided to use these questions for analysis. The average percentage of correctly answered questions was: for the dentists 53%, for the dental hygienists 58% and for the dental assistants 37%. The group of 142 dentists was further analyzed. It appears that the knowledge about preventive dental matters increases subsequently with each year of gradual ion. Analysis of the dentists who graduated from Dutch dental schools in their capacity as private practitioner, as faculty member or in the school dental service, revealed that there was no difference in knowledge between these groups. With some reservations the conclusion can be stated that an obvious necessity exists for post‐academic courses in preventive dentistry in the groups concerned. Greater uniformity is needed between the views of the experts and the dental professionals who treat patients daily.
Social background and dental care habits and attitudes of Finnish immigrants in Sweden
Authors: Widström Eeva , Martinsson Thore
Published: May 2006

Foreign citizens today constitute 5% of the Swedish population. While several epidemiological investigations have dealt with dental care habits in the Swedish population, very little is known about the dental care habits of immigrants. This constitutes a factor of uncertainty in the planning of dental care. A random sample of 170 Finnish immigrants, 20‐80 years old, in the community of Huddinge was selected. They were summoned to the Faculty Clinics for interview and clinical and radiographic examination. 143 persons appeared for examination. The interview showed that 46.6% of the subjects had never visited a dentist in Sweden though 80% of them intended to remain in Sweden. 19.8% still made more or less regular use of dental services in Finland. The low frequency of utilization of dental services is mainly due to the difficulty in obtaining dental care, lack of knowledge of Swedish, lack of interest and fear of pain. According to the present study Finns in Sweden utilize dental services to a smaller extent than Swedes. The decision of principle adopted by the Swedish parliament in 1968 that immigrants shall be able to live under the same conditions as the Swedes seems not to be fully achieved with regard to the dental care of Finnish immigrants.
Preliminary investigation of the relationship between population DMFT scores and mix of restorative and exodontic needs
Authors: Spencer Andrew John
Published: May 2006

Abstract The relationships between mean DMFT and the mean probability of a decayed tooth requiring restorative or exodontic treatment items among Australian adolescents were studied. Significant relationships were found between mean DMFT and the probability of requiring a one‐surface, two‐surface, or a three‐surface restoration. Relationships between mean DMFT and the probability of requiring a four or more surface restoration or extractions were not significant. The relationships studied may be used to predict the mix of restorative and exodontic items of care needed from data on mean decayed teeth and mean DMFT.
Comparison of esthetic values among Caucasians and Pacific‐Asians
Authors: Kiyak H. Asuman
Published: May 2006

Abstract As a first step in understanding the relation between racial and individual features which affect dental esthetic values, native Pacific Asians and Caucasians rated facial drawings of females with various occlusal relations. While differences emerged, esthetics ratings were unrelated to racial congruence or to the individual's own malocclusion. Greater tolerance for malocclusion was found in Asians. Implications for dental treatment and perceived need for treatment are discussed.