bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Precancerous and other oral mucosal lesions related to chewing, smoking and drinking habits in Thailand
Authors: Reichart Peter A. , Mohr Ulrich , Srisuwan Sampan , Geerlings Heinz , Theetranont Chote , Kangwanpong Tawan
Published: May 2006

Abstract In a field study (1979–1984) four out of six major hilltribes of Northern Thailand, namely the Lahu, Karen, Lisu and Meo, as well as a group of rural Thai, were examined. Chewing, smoking and drinking habits and lesions of the oral mucosa (leukoedema, preleukoplakia, leukoplakia and chewer's mucosa) were recorded. 1866 individuals were examined. Considerable differences in the chewing and smoking habits among the various tribes were recorded and some of them were considered tribe‐specific. Chewing of betel and miang was more prevalent among older people; these habits seem to have lost their attraction for the younger people. Cigarette smoking was more prevalent among middle‐aged individuals. Leukoedema was observed in 12.4%, preleukoplakia in 1.8%, leukoplakia in 1.1% and chewer's mucosa in 13.1%. Men and the older generation were affected more often, except that more women (Karen and Thai) revealed chewer's mucosa. A positive correlation could be demonstrated between some mucosal lesions (leukoedema, chewer's mucosa) and some smoking and chewing habits.
Effect of a special dental program upon extreme dental anxiety
Authors: Makkes Peter C. , Schuurs Albert H. B. , Thoden van Velzen Sijo K. , Duivenvoorden Hugo J. , Verhage Frans
Published: May 2006

Abstract Dental anxiety of 60 extremely anxious dental patients enrolled in a special program, was measured multioperationally before and immediately after treatment, and 6 months later. The mean anxiety level was substantially lowered during the course of treatment, indicating a favourable effect of the program. After Amsterdam, The Netherlands 6 months dental anxiety was still at the lower level.
Toothbrushing frequency in relation to family size and bedtimes in English schoolchildren
Authors: Macgregor I. D. M. , Balding J. W.
Published: May 2006

Abstract Data from a survey of 3727 14‐yr‐old children from 31 secondary schools in England in 1984–85 were analysed to obtain information about tooth brushing frequency, social group, number of siblings, and time of going to bed. Subjects completed a questionnaire, anonymously, in class. One third of respondents cleaned their teeth once or less per day. Tooth brushing frequency was found to increase significantly with improvement in social status in males (P < 0.05), while a similar non‐significant trend was found in females. Tooth brushing frequency decreased significantly as the number of siblings increased (P < 0.01) and a trend towards decreasing brushing frequency as bedtimes became later was observed. These findings indicate that family factors do influence tooth brushing practice in adolescents. These factors need to be understood more thoroughly if tooth brushing habits in school‐age children are to be improved.
Relationship between diet‐related behavior and caries in a group of 14‐year‐old Danish children
Authors: Hölund Ulla
Published: May 2006

Abstract Dietary factors related to dental caries may be both biological and behavioral. In the present study the relative contribution of a number of behavioral characteristics is analyzed in order to differentiate between caries‐active (CA) and caries‐inactive (CI) children. The study group comprised 49 CA and 55 CI 14‐yr‐old Danish children, constituting the dichotomous dependent variable. Several variables related to the social and cultural context in which food and snack consumption takes place were studied. Subsequently, their relative contributions to the discriminant function (CA vs. CI) were estimated using discriminant analysis. The three strongest discriminating variables were “weekly milk consumption” (−0.726), “packed lunch from home” (0.554), and “weekly consumption of candy in DKK” (0.306) as measured by standardized canonical discriminant function coefficients. These variables may be indicative of the impact of the social environment on dietary habits, pointing to the need for incorporating the social network as reinforcing agent in dietary counseling if dietary behavior is to be changed.
Comparative study of oral conditions in schoolchildren of Strasbourg, France, 1974–85
Authors: Cahen Pierre‐Michel , Turlot Jean‐Christophe , Frank Robert M. , Clement Gérard , Seckler Gil
Published: May 2006

Abstract A representative sample of 1650 children randomly selected in the 6–15‐yr‐old schoolchild population of Strasbourg was examined by well‐calibrated examiners. The prevalence of caries was determined with the DMFT, DMFS and dft indices using bitewing radiographs. Plaque, calculus and gingival indices were also determined. The results obtained were compared with the initial study of 1974 performed in Strasbourg using the same epidemiologic methods. Whereas no important variations were observed in caries prevalence of primary teeth, a significant reduction of caries activity was observed in DMFT and DMFS indices in all age groups. There was a reduction of these two indices of respectively 32% and 33% in the 12‐yr‐old children. The reduction was the most significant on approximal surface lesions. A statistically significant decrease of the calculus and gingival indices was also observed between 1974 and 1984. A less significant decrease was observed for the plaque index.
Hypodontia and hyperdontia of permanent teeth in Hong Kong schoolchildren
Authors: Davis P. Jane
Published: May 2006

Abstract This study was performed to determine the prevalence of hypodontia and hyperdontia of permanent teeth amongst Southern Chinese children in Hong Kong. The sample consisted of 1093 12‐yr‐old children on whom a panoramic radiograph was taken. The prevalence of congenitally missing teeth (third molars excluded) was 6.1% in boys, 7.7% in girls, and 6.9% for both sexes combined. On the average, each child was missing 1.5 teeth. The most commonly absent tooth was the mandibular incisor, affecting 58.7% of the children with hypodontia. Thirty children (2.7%) had supernumerary teeth, with a male: female ratio of 6.5:1; in four cases the tooth had erupted. Three children had fourth molars and one case of a supplemental premolar was recorded (all unerupted). Four cases of a maxillary supernumerary tooth and hypodontia in the mandible were seen.
Representativeness of the “Ramfjord teeth” for epidemiologic studies of gingivitis and periodontitis
Authors: Fleiss J. L. , Park M. H. , Chilton N. W. , Alman J. E. , Feldman R. S. , Chauncey H. H.
Published: May 2006

Abstract Data from the Veterans Administration Dental Longitudinal Study of 736 men each examined four times were analyzed to determine how representative the six “Ramfjord Teeth” (RT) were of the rest of the dentition for epidemiologic studies of gingivitis and periodontitis. Correlation coefficients were calculated between scores for gingival inflammation generated by the RT and scores for the teeth in the rest of the mouth; the correlation coefficients between the two scores tended to be high. Sensitivity, specificity and predictive values were calculated for periodontal pathology classified on the basis of the pocket depths of the six RT. Reliance on the RT resulted in systematic underestimation of the prevalence and incidence of deep periodontal pockets. The RT are more than adequately representative of the rest of the dentition for epidemiologic studies of gingivitis, but are inadequate surrogates of the rest of the mouth for epidemiologic studies of periodontitis.
Periapical status in subjects with regular dental care habits
Authors: Bergström Jan , Eliasson Sören , Ahlberg Karin F.
Published: May 2006

Abstract This study covered 250 subjects aged 21–60 yr subdivided into four age groups. Oral hygiene status and dental care habits were above average and the number of teeth remaining was high in all age groups (range 24.1–27.3). All subjects were radiographically examined by means of an intraoral full mouth survey. From the radiographs periapical lesions and root fillings were recorded. A total of 117 subjects (46.8%) presented with one or more periapical lesions distributed between 294 roots (2.9%) or 229 teeth (3.5%). Two‐thirds of the periapical lesions were related to endodontically treated roots. Of all endodontically treated roots 28.8% were associated with a periapical lesion. Irrespective of the relative length 17.2% of the homogeneous and 37.9% of the inhomogeneous root fillings were associated with a periapical lesion. It is concluded that periapical lesions although rare in these subjects were most frequent in root filled teeth.
Microbial conditions and caries increment 2 years after discontinuation of controlled antimicrobial measures in Swedish teenagers
Authors: Zickert I. , Emilson C. G. , Krasse B. , Zickert I.
Published: May 2006

Abstract The purpose of the present study was to examine the long‐term effect of a special caries preventive program in teenagers. Over a 3‐yr period directed and controlled antimicrobial treatment using Streptococcus mutans as an indicator organism resulted in a remarkable caries reduction especially in children with > 106 S mutans per ml of saliva at the start of the study. Two years after discontinuation of the special preventive program 83 out of 101 subjects, 18–19 yr old, were reexamined. All the children had followed the same basic preventive program in the Dental Health Service. The number of S. mutans and lactobacilli per ml of saliva within and between control and test groups was with few exceptions practically the same as 5 yr earlier. During the posttreatment period the caries activity was similar in the control and test groups and lower than during the experimental years especially in the control group. Subjects with initial S. mutans level of > 106 CFU per ml of saliva continued to show incremental caries scores higher than those subjects with lower S. mutans levels.
Behavior of dentists and child patients during treatment
Authors: Prins Pier , Veerkamp Jaap , ter Horst Guusje , de Jong Anke , Tan Lilian
Published: May 2006

Abstract This study is part of a larger research project which aims to analyze children's dental fear by making a detailed analysis of the behavioral interactions between dentists and anxious child patients. The behavior of 12 high‐ and 12 low‐anxious children was recorded on videotape during two dental visits in which the children were treated by either experienced or inexperienced dentists. Results indicated a relation between the dentist's experience in treating anxious children and the behavior of child patients. In general, children treated by experienced dentists showed more fear‐related behaviors. Furthermore, the behavior of the dentist was related to both his experience and the fear level of the child patient. Experienced dentists showed more communicative behaviors than the inexperienced dentists, but all dentists communicated more with high‐ than with low‐anxious children. Experienced dentists worked faster than inexperienced dentists, but treatment of the high‐anxious children was not more time‐consuming than treatment of the low‐anxious children.
Toward a typology of preventively oriented dentists
Authors: Sadowsky Donald , Kunzel Carol
Published: May 2006

Abstract This study identifies predictors of preventive behavior among dental general practitioners in New York State. A total of 217 clinicians was interviewed by telephone. Dentists practicing in an urban area (n= 120) and in a rural area (n= 97) were studied. A unit‐weighted index of clinician preventive orientation was created, by summing z‐score values for two preventive variables: the number of content items and the number of patient visits in an organized preventive program that entailed more than one visit. Multiple regression of this preventive orientation index on selected independent variables showed that, for the entire sample, variables representing involvement in academic and institutional dentistry, exposure to education through journals and courses, a predeliction for innovation, and the presence of a hygienist in the office, were most influential in creating a model that successfully predicted reported preventive behavior. Differences between urban and rural clinicians in predictors of preventive behavior are also identified. Data collected are compared with those of four previous studies that attempted to describe potential predictors of preventive behavior in dentists.
Survey of the oral health needs of institutionalised elderly patients in Western Australia
Authors: Stockwell Antony J.
Published: May 2006

Abstract An epidemiological survey of the oral health needs of 1144 elderly patients was conducted in hospitals and nursing homes in Western Australia. Patients were categorised as being either totally dependent (requiring intensive nursing care) or partially dependent (requiring nursing supervision). Of all patients the mean age was 80.2 yr, 70% were women, 74% were edentulous, and 70% needed some form of prosthetic care. Of all dentate patients 56% needed dental scaling (and 17% needed complex periodontal treatment), 47% needed some restorative treatment (with a mean need per patient of 1.1 coronal restorations and 0.4 radicular restoration), and 29% needed one or more dental extractions (with a mean need of 1.4 extractions per patient). Partially dependent patients had statistically significant higher needs for prosthetic work than did totally dependent patients, while the converse applied to extraction needs, but in all other aspects the needs of the two categories of patient did not differ significantly.
Changing patterns of dental caries in Ethiopian adolescents who immigrated to Israel
Authors: Sarnat Haim , Cohen Shoshanah , Gat Haim
Published: May 2006

Abstract The aim of this investigation was to explore changes in caries prevalence and gingival health in adolescents who immigrated from Ethiopia to Israel, experiencing an abrupt cultural transition. Fifty adolescents, aged 15–17, born in Ethiopia, and 196 adolescents born in Israel were examined. All were pupils of a boarding school, sharing the same living conditions and eating schedules. The results showed a nearly six fold difference in caries prevalence between the Ethiopian and the Israeli group (1.5/9.6). No differences could be seen clinically between the Ethiopians who immigrated more than 1 yr ago and those who arrived within the last year. Radio‐graphically, a significant difference was found between the two Ethiopian subgroups. Those who arrived more than 1 yr ago had nearly three times more initial caries. Total inter proximal caries scores for the Israeli group, Ethiopians who arrived more than 1 yr ago, and newly arrived Ethiopians were 6.9, 5.7 and 2.1 respectively. Oral hygiene was poorer in the Ethiopian group than in the Israeli group; little difference was found in gingival health. Change in dietary habits, more meals per day and more frequent consumption of fermentable carbohydrates, could have been the cause of the change in caries rate.
Dental health in Icelandic urban children aged 11 and 12 years
Authors: Bjarnason Sibilla , Koch Göran
Published: May 2006

Abstract A total of 1370 children were examined for caries, gingivitis, periodontal pocketing, calculus and loss of marginal alveolar bone. The mean DFT and DPS scores were 6.2 and 8.7 for 11‐yr‐old children and 8.2 and 12.1 for 12‐yr‐olds. The average number of initial caries lesions was 12.4 among 11‐yr‐olds and 15.7 among 12‐yr‐olds. The proximal and smooth surfaces accounted for 37% of the total DPS score in the 11‐yr‐old children and 43% in the 12‐yr‐olds. The median DPS score for the 11‐yr‐old boys and girls was 7, while for the 12‐yr‐old boys it was 9 and for the girls 11. Only 1.8% of the children were free from caries. The occurrence of gingivitis, expressed by GBI, was 20 in both age groups. 8% of the children showed no advanced gingival inflammation, while less than 1 % had bleeding gingivitis at all examined surfaces. Supragingival calculus was found in 10% of the children. Neither periodontal pocketing nor loss of marginal alveolar bone was observed.
Caries experience and sex related tea consumption amongst 13–14‐year‐old children in Palmyra, Syrian Arab Republic
Authors: Cooper Maxwell H. , Burhani Hisham M. , Schamschula Rezso G. , Barmes David E.
Published: May 2006

Abstract Associations were examined between caries experience and the volume of tea consumed/day by schoolchildren in Palmyra, Syria. Girls had significantly higher DM FT scores and consumed less tea than boys.
Economic evaluation of community programs for the prevention of dental caries in Catalonia, Spain
Authors: Manau Carolina , Cuenca Emili , Martinez‐Carretero Josep , Salleras Lluis
Published: May 2006

Abstract The purpose of the present study was to estimate the cost‐effectiveness of three alternative community programs to prevent dental caries among Catalonia's schoolchildren. The programs were: fluoridation of the public water supply, fortnightly 0.2% NaF mouthrinses administered in schools, and supervised tooth brushing with a fluoride toothpaste in schools. Caries prevalence data for Catalan children are given and the methodology for the study is described. The estimated cost of saving 1 DMFS with each program was: 53.40 Pts (US$ 0.39) with fluoridation of the water supply; 305.20 Pts (US$ 2.26) with fluoride mouthrinses; and 1498 Pts (US$ 11–09) with supervised tooth brushing. The feasibility of the programs in Catalonia and their educational values for the target population are considered.
Pathways to full mouth extraction
Authors: Bouma Jelte , Uitenbroek Daan , Westert Gert , Schaub Rob M. H. , van de Poel Fons
Published: May 2006

Abstract The process of not attending the dentist is a vicious cycle in which anxiety plays a crucial role. A research project concerning the disease and non‐disease reasons for full mouth extraction provided an opportunity to describe the dental histories in terms of dental attendance pattern and related factors which resulted in full dentures. Three profiles of dental histories could be outlined: 1) The regular attenders (19%). Because of their age (x̄= 47 yr), their positive attitude towards dentistry together with their positive attitude towards full dentures, it is suggested that the possibilities of keeping the natural dentition were exhausted so that full mouth extraction was an acceptable solution. 2) The symptomatic attenders (38%). Because anxiety, which was widespread in this group, was not based on negative experiences, it is suggested that anxiety is caused by social learning. Together with their positive attitude towards full dentures, the high prevalence of full dentures in their social environment and their low socioeconomic status, the conclusion is drawn that these patients lived in a culture which supports behavior that leads to total tooth loss. 3) Once regular attenders (43%). In this group anxiety leads to a negative perception of dental visits and to a negative attitude towards dentists. As a consequence dental visits are deferred, which results in deterioration of the dentition. Experiences with dentists are distorted in a negative way, which increases denial anxiety. Facilitated by a positive attitude towards full dentures, their bad dental condition finally urges them to take full dentures al early age.
Caries prediction through combined use of incipient caries lesions, salivary buffering capacity, lactobacilli and yeasts in Finland
Authors: Pienihäkkinen Kaisu
Published: May 2006

Abstract The caries predictive value of incipient caries lesions (INC), salivary buffering capacity (DBPH), and salivary lactobacilli and yeasts (DCOC) was studied using logistic regression models. Additionally the effect of age was analysed. The subjects (n = 284) were from 7 to 12 yr of age (categorized ≤9 yr and ≥ 10 yr). The measurements were carried out with Dentocult, Oricult and Dentobuff chair‐side methods (Orion Diagnostica, Helsinki) in two groups of a field study. INC and DCOC contributed significantly to prediction in both groups. The estimated odds for being a caries active subject were about 20‐fold in one group and 33.5‐fold in ≥ 10 yr in the other, when a child had positive values for INC and DCOC, in comparison with all negative values. Additionally DBPH had predictive value in both age categories in the latter group. Although the prediction was not perfect on an individual basis (correct in about 70% of subjects) the estimated odds‐ratios clearly describe the differences in the susceptibility to caries. The results suggest that the present variables, especially in combination, have good ability to distinguish subjects in respect of high and low caries increment.
Comparison of the crown size of teeth in children from a high and an optimum fluoride area in South Africa
Authors: Omar Ridwaan
Published: May 2006

Abstract An odontometric analysis was undertaken of the teeth of 6–7 and 14–15‐yr‐old schoolchildren exposed throughout life to a naturally fluoridated drinking water supply (2.5 ppm) in Klipfontein and of equivalent children living in the adjacent area of Garies (1.06 ppm). Measurements were made of the mesio‐dislal diameter of permanent maxillary and mandibular central incisors, second premolars and first and second molars; in addition, bucco‐lingual measurements of the molars were made. In comparing the dimensions of teeth in the high‐ and optimum‐fluoride samples, a tendency towards smaller dimensions in the former group was observed, but statistically significant differences applied to only some of the measurements. This finding suggests a reducing influence on crown size of an increase in the level of fluoride in the drinking water. Coupled with previous findings that increasing the fluoride level from low or zero to optimal results in a reduction in crown size, an inverse relationship between crown size and fluoride level in the drinking water appears possible, but has not been confirmed in this study.
Long‐term evaluation of 211 patients with internal derangement of the temporomandibular joint
Authors: Pedersen Anne , Hansen Hans Jörgen
Published: May 2006

Abstract This report is a long‐term evaluation of 211 patients (158 women, 53 men) with TMJ clicking and/or TMJ incoordination, treated at the University Hospital of Copenhagen, Denmark, in the years 1971–77. Information on present symptoms and the effect of the initial treatment was obtained from questionnaires. Standard treatment procedures had been used in 153 patients while 58 patients had had counseling only. In the actively treated group, 59% were still doing well, 30% had unchanged symptoms and 5% experienced aggravated symptoms. In the counseled group, 40% were free of symptoms, 50% had unchanged symptoms and 7% aggravated symptoms. A highly significant association was found between the absence or presence of symptoms at the end of treatment according to patient records and the evaluation of the initial effect of treatment 8–15 yr later, which indicates that reliable results can be expected from a long‐term evaluation of TMJ dysfunction patients. In the sample as a whole, the frequency of TMJ sounds was unchanged compared to the time of treatment (64% vs 66%). A significantly higher frequency was, however, found in the untreated group, indicating that treatment might have a positive effect on TMJ sounds. The frequency of recurrent Headache had increased considerably over the years (6% vs 34%), 32% still experienced pain/tenderness on mandibular movement, 24% suffered from impaired mandibular mobility and 82% were aware of bruxism/clenching of teeth. Furthermore, we found a significant association between Headache before treatment and Headache, awareness of bruxism and clenching of teeth at the time of evaluation. Headache thus seems to be a permanent problem which is also closely related to parafunctional habits in patients with internal TMJ derangement.
Fluoride intake from beverage consumption
Authors: Clovis Joanne , Hargreaves John Anthony
Published: May 2006

Abstract Previous studies have shown that fluoride is present in beverages prepared with fluoridated water. The purpose of this study was to determine the availability of fluoride from beverages consumed in adjacent fluoridated and non‐fluoridated communities taking into account fluoride supplementation regimens. Children in grade six were invited to participate in recording of beverage intake in two cities in Alberta, Canada: Wetaskiwin, with water supplies fluoridated at 1.08 ppm F, and Camrose, non‐fluoridated with water supplies at 0.23 ppm F. Three‐day beverage intake records –“Drink Diaries”– were collected from 179 children in Wetaskiwin and 230 children in Camrose. Fluoride values, based on the analyses of Hargreaves, were assigned to the reported consumption of the children with the three highest and three lowest total beverage intakes in each community. A wide range of available fluoride was found. A substantial source of fluoride was shown to be available in the non‐fluoridated community from beverages other than water, primarily from carbonated beverages commercially prepared with fluoridated water. Available beverages and actual consumption should be considered in the prescription of fluoride supplementation for children with minimal fluoride in their drinking water.
Use of children's oral health services in Finland with special reference to heavy consumption
Authors: Milén Annell , Laaksonen Tarja , Tala Heikki
Published: May 2006

Abstract The consumption of oral health services among 4–16‐yr‐old children in Finland is described, including an analysis of heavy consumption. Data representative of all Finnish children were collected for 4518 children from municipal health centers and homes. The response rate was 85%. Children with orthodontic visits during the year were excluded from the analyses. Of the preschoolchildren 12% and of the school‐age children 4% did not use any oral health services during the studied year. Non‐users did not differ from the others in terms of socioeconomic status, distance to a health center or type of residential area. Public oral health services were used very unevenly. Half of the children consumed only one‐fifth of the services and the next one‐third used about one‐third of the services. The heavy consumers, about one‐fifth of the total, used as much as half of all the sendees. Among preschoolchildren, the heavy consumers were mainly from lower socioeconomic groups. In contrast, no clear predictive factors were found for heavy consumption among the schoolchildren. Heavy consumers had more both treated and untreated caries than the other children did. Their treatment was mainly restorative; at least half of them did not receive adequate preventive care. Finnish public oral health care clearly should make more efforts to ensure that heavy consumers of dental services do not remain so.
Effects of wages and scale on the costs of school‐based mouthrinsing programs in the USA
Authors: Doherty Neville J. G. , Martie Charles W.
Published: May 2006

Abstract Studies of school‐based mouthrinsing programs show variations in costs. In earlier work per subject costs in 14 programs were shown to increase with program size. Theoretical explanations for this finding, pertinent to these programs, include 1) wage differentials and 2) scale effects – differences in labor productivity attributable to organizational differences. To test the hypotheses implicit in these explanations a log‐linear model was specified with average costs (in constant dollars) expressed as a function of wages and scale. Data were pooled for two complete years, yielding 28 observations. Regression analysis showed that 68% of the variation in average costs was explained by wages and scale, and that with wages held constant, a 1.0% increase in program size correlated with a 0.33% increase in per subject costs. The result is attributable to decreasing labor productivity. The findings of diseconomies of scale in mouthrinse programs have potential implications for the planning and evaluation of community dental programs.
Effect of a nationwide periodontal health campaign on dentists' awareness, attitude and behavior in Norway
Authors: Sögaard Anne Johanne
Published: May 2006

Abstract In 1980 the “Year against Periodontal Disease” was launched in Norway. The campaign was planned in two steps and aimed: 1) to improve the dentists’ professional skills and 2) to raise the awareness and knowledge about periodontal disease in the public. This paper deals with the evaluation of the first step: the dentist‐directed part of the campaign, during which the dentists were offered intensified continuing education and information from the Norwegian Dental Association. Afterwards, a simple preceded questionnaire was sent by mail to a sample (280) of the dentists, asking for their awareness about and attitudes towards the campaign, their participation in campaign activities and the impact of the campaign on their working routines. Of the 72% of the sample who answered, 98% were aware of the campaign, 53% reported changes in working routines and 49% had participated in upgrading courses. The age group 36–55 attended upgrading courses more frequently than younger and older colleagues. Course attendance, age, location of practice and two attitude dimensions, which emerged from factor analysis, were the most powerful variables in explaining changes in working routines.
Personality traits of patients suffering extreme dental anxiety
Authors: Schuurs Albert H. B. , Duivenvoorden Hugo J. , Makkes Peter C. , van Velzen Sijo K. Thoden , Verhage Frans
Published: May 2006

Abstract In order to investigate the relationship between dental anxiety and some personality traits, a group of 103 patients suffering extreme dental anxiety and therefore enrolled in a special treatment program were compared with controls sampled at random. The mean scores of the controls on dental anxiety measurements and on questionnaires dealing with personality traits were transformed into 50 with standard deviation equal to 10 to make them mutually comparable, and these subsequently were used as reference points, from which the likewise transformed mean scores of the anxiety group have to differ substantially if both groups stem from different populations. The mean scores were tested for difference with ANOVA. It appears that the anxious patients are more neurotic, i.e. more unstable, than the controls. Moreover, the patients feel themselves more uncertain with regard to having control, are less decisive, have a lower self‐esteem, are less inclined to act and are, in general, anxious persons. These findings may have implications for selecting the most appropriate approach for amelioration of their anxiety or support of their coping capacity.
Development of dental status and treatment behavior among Norwegian adults 1973–85
Authors: Helöe Leif Arne , Hoist Dorthe , Rise Jostein
Published: May 2006

Abstract Utilization rates, types of dental services received and reports on number of teeth present were studied through seven sets of cross‐sectional data collected in 1973,'77,'79,'81.'83 and'85. Personal interviews performed by trained interviewers were held with nationwide probability samples, each of 1500 persons covering the Norwegian population aged 15 and above. During the 12‐yr period, the percentage of the samples reporting to have 20 or more teeth increased from 63 in 1973 to 74 in 1985, while the percentage of edentulous subjects dropped from 16 to 12. The time interval since the last dental visit decreased continuously: in 1973, 58% of the sample reported to have paid a dental visit during the last year, in 1983, 70%. Correspondingly, a higher proportion of the samples stated they were regular treatment attenders (52% in 1973 and 67% in 1985, while the proportion of “irregulars” dropped. Although the regularity of the visits probably was somewhat overreported, the favorable trend was substantiated by the information on services received: extractions, denture services and fillings diminished, while preventive and “other” services gained importance. Possible explanations and implications for dental practice and education are discussed.
Measuring length of exposure to fluoridated water
Authors: Grembowski David
Published: May 2006

Abstract Previous studies have measured subjects’ exposure to fluoridated water in two ways: number of years exposed to fluoridation and a dummy variable indicating the fluoridation status of the subjects’ present community. The former assumes that fluoride concentrations of water supplies are constant across years, while the latter assumes subjects have never changed residences. Measurement error may occur when either assumption is not satisfied. These two sources of error may be reduced in a newly developed measure of lifetime fluoridation exposure (LFE) containing residence history and fluoride level elements. The aim of this paper is to examine the accuracy of the three measures. Results reveal that the number of years measure and LFE are highly correlated (0.98) and have similar effects in a regression model, indicating both are valid measures of fluoridation exposure. LFE also appears to be fairly insensitive to measurement error due to inaccurate recall of residence histories. Measuring fluoridation exposure with a dummy variable is not recommended.
Swedish and Finnish dental practitioners' opinions of their undergraduate education
Authors: Widström Eeva , Martinsson Thore , Nilsson Bo
Published: May 2006

Abstract Recently qualified dentists from a dental school in Stockholm, Sweden (n= 259) and the dental school in Kuopio, Finland (n= 103) were sent a questionnaire designed to obtain information concerning the perceived relevance of their undergraduate education to the practice of dentistry. The response rate was 71% for Stockholm and 82% for Kuopio. Except for minor differences, probably mainly due to economic resources and traditions in choice of treatment, the graduates in the two countries had comparable views of their basic education. In general, clinical dental subjects were highly valued, while basic science subjects but also subjects in medical and behavioral sciences were given low values. Our results indicate that, although prevention and behavioral sciences are stressed more and more in undergraduate education, the practice of clinical dentistry remains essentially unchanged and restorative dentistry is still very highly valued among recent graduates of these two dental schools.
Changes in prevalence of approximal caries in 17‐year‐olds and related restorative treatment strategies over a 6‐year period
Authors: Heidmann Jens , Helm Sven , Helm Tove , Poulsen Sven
Published: May 2006

Abstract Two cohorts of 17‐yr‐olds treated in a municipal child dental service in 1978–79 and 1984–85 had bitewing radiographs taken at the examination before the last course of treatment in the service. All radiographs were read by one examiner, who did not know to which cohort the individual belonged. The subsequent treatment was recorded from the treatment records by another examiner, who was unaware of the results of the radiographic examination. According to radiographic scores, the proportion of decayed or filled (DPS) approximal surfaces had decreased from 23.2% to 17.4% during the period (difference: 25%). The proportion of unfilled surfaces which were decayed (DS) had remained almost constant, while 9.6% of the surfaces were filled (FS) in 1978–79 compared to 3.1% in 1984–85 (difference: 68%). Thus, in spite of a 25% decrease in total caries experience (DPS), a reduction of 68% would be claimed if fillings (FS) were interpreted as expression of disease prevalence. The risk of an approximal surface being filled decreased to about one fifth from 1978–79 to 1984–85, and the risk of being filled was nearly three times as high for approximal surfaces of children who already had approximal fillings at the time of examination. Thus, both the year of examination and the subject's previously received treatment seemed to influence the treatment strategy of the dentist.
Epidemiology of root surface caries in patients treated for periodontal diseases
Authors: Keltjens Herman , Schaeken Thijs , van der Hoeven Hans , Hendriks Jan
Published: May 2006

Abstract The prevalence of root surface caries was estimated in 83 patients surgically treated for periodontal disease and some relating factors were analyzed. The overall root caries index (RCI) was 6.28%. Anterior teeth in the mandible were significantly less affected than other groups of teeth. Root surfaces, divided into subgroups according to surgical treatment and length of exposure, showed no significant differences in RCI. No correlation was found between DFS‐index and RCI. RCI increased with age. Concomitantly in older people more time had elapsed between the periodontal treatment and the present clinical examination. Salivary S. mutans counts and a combination of higher salivary S. mutans and lactobacilli counts were good indicators for the presence of root surface caries.
Periodontal conditions in a randomly selected population in Switzerland
Authors: Schürch Ernst , Minder Christoph E. , Lang Niklaus P. , Geering Alfred H.
Published: May 2006

Abstract The aim of the present study was to evaluate the periodontal conditions of a randomly selected population in the Canton of Berne, Switzerland. From a total of 350 selected persons, 206 (59%) attended the examinations. The Plaque Index (P1I), Gingival Index (GI) and Retention Index (RI), the width of the keratinized gingiva, pocket probing depth (PD) and loss of probing attachment (LA) were recorded on four surfaces per tooth in the entire dentition of the subjects. The statistical analyses were performed using the Statistical Analysis System (SAS). A total of 4253 teeth were scored. On average the patients had 20.7 teeth. The mean P1I of this population was 1.16, the mean GI was 1.34 and the mean RI was 0.81. All three indices were higher in older age groups. 72% of all measurements for pocket probing depths were less than or equal to 3 mm, 26% were between 4 and 6 mm, and only 2% were more than 6 mm. 76% of all sites had lost less than or equal to 3 mm of probing attachment, 21% of the sites had lost between 4 and 6 mm and only 3% had lost more than 6 mm. There were no statistically significant differences either between females and males or between the rural and the urban populations. These results indicate that only a relatively small percentage of the sample representative for the respective area in Switzerland suffered from advanced periodontitis, while the great majority may be treated by rather conservative approaches to periodontal therapy.
Importance of variables affecting pit and fissure sealant use in the United Kingdom
Authors: Cohen Leonard , Sheiham Aubrey
Published: May 2006

Abstract A mail survey of 1000 dentists representing the general population of practising dentists in Great Britain and Northern Ireland was conducted to identify those factors most predictive of sealant use. The response rate obtained was 73.7%. The mean percentage of patients aged 18 and under receiving sealants was 13.4 (SD 20.7). For both respondents who had received sealant training in dental school and those who had not, the three variable groupings having the strongest correlation with levels of sealant use were preventive orientation, opinion about sealants, and patient influence. Multiple regression analyses reflected these simple correlations. For both sealant educated respondents (R2= 39%) and respondents without sealant education (R2= 49%), the best combination of variables predicting sealant use were preventive orientation, opinion about sealants, and patient influence.
Compliance following referral in the early detection of oral cancer and precancer in Sri Lanka
Authors: Warnakulasuriya Saman , Ekanayake Asoka , Stjernsward Jan , Pindborg Jens J. , Sivayoham Sabapathy
Published: May 2006

Abstract An innovative approach for the early detection of oral cancer and precancer within the context of the primary health care system has been field tested in Sri Lanka. The overall compliance in accepting this particular PHC approach for cancer screening, as estimated by arrival at a referral centre manned by consultant staff, was 54.1%. Nearly 80% of those who turned up without needing an additional reminder, did so within the first 2 weeks of case finding. There was a variation in the degree of compliance depending on the primary health care worker who did the screening and referral. Compliance was greater when the screening area was nearer to the referral centre and in subjects who were diagnosed as having a more advanced stage of the disease. Certain practical considerations that contributed to noncompliance were identified. Postal reminders were seen to increase overall compliance by 10.9%.
Shifts between use and non‐use of dental services among young Danish adults over a 3‐year period
Authors: Schwarz Eli , Kronborg Doric
Published: May 2006

Abstract Utilization of dental services among three groups of young adults was studied longitudinally. Each year from age 16 to age 19, participants were defined as users or non‐users of alternative dental programs. Dental programs were taking place with public dental health service clinics (n= 386), with private dental practitioners, free of charge (n= 161), and with private dental practitioners, partially reimbursed by health insurance (n= 261). The paper analyzes whether the pattern of utilization of the last two groups might be described by a Markovian model defining use or non‐use of dental care each of 3 years as two mutually exclusive Markovian states. Contingency table analysis of the relationships of the utilization status and sex, social group, and delivery program showed that the utilization pattern could not be described by a Markovian model. Conversely, strong relationships between 1‐yr user status and 3‐yr user status was found. Implications in relation to the prevailing dental health care policy emphasizing regular dental care and continuity between child dental health care and young adult dental programs are discussed.
Cost appraisal of a fluoride tablet programme to Manchester primary schoolchildren
Authors: O'Rourke C. A. , Attrill M. , Holloway P. J.
Published: May 2006

Abstract The Manchester fluoride tablet trial was a pragmatic study to assist the Health Authority to decide whether to provide fluoride tablets daily to all primary schoolchildren in the District prior to water fluoridation being introduced. Twenty‐two primary schools took part, half being allocated at random to the public health programme while the other half remained untreated. The average age at baseline was 5 yr 3 months. Costs were monitored throughout the trial and tangible and intangible benefits assessed. 263 children in the test schools and 266 in the control schools completed the trial. The cost per child was £4.39 for the 3 yr of the trial. Economies resulting from an increase in size of a substantive scheme were estimated producing a cost of £1.98/child over a 3‐yr period for a tangible benefit of £3.23. In addition, the intangible benefits of less anxiety, less treatment, and fewer experiences of general anaesthesia need consideration.
Dental and oral symptoms of diabetes mellitus
Authors: Albrecht Mária , Bánóczy Jolán , Tamás Gyula
Published: May 2006

Abstract Dental and oral examinations of 1360 patients with diabetes mellitus showed higher DMFT mean values with fewer carious teeth and more filled and extracted teeth than the controls. PI mean values were higher in diabetics than in the controls, the difference being statistically significant, and showed a positive correlation with age, but no correlation with the length of lime since the disease was established. No correlation was found between the severity of gingivitis and changes in blood glucose levels. The sucrose‐free diet of diabetics does not seem to reduce caries prevalence. The increased DMFT index is explained by the fact that, due to periodontitis, diabetics lose more teeth sooner than do healthy people.
Evaluation of an indirect method for assessing the quality of amalgam restorations in epidemiological studies
Authors: Kroeze Jan , Ruiken Ron , van‘t Hof Martin
Published: May 2006

Abstract The purpose of the present study was to compare an indirect method with direct clinical observations for its ability to assess the clinical quality of amalgam restorations. Two evaluators examined independently the quality of 290 amalgam restorations in 25 patients. All restorations were examined directly as well as indirectly using seven well‐defined characteristics. Direct assessment consisted of visual examination utilizing mirror and explorer. Indirect observations were made with the aid of color transparencies and bite‐wing radiographs. The results showed a high interexaminer agreement for the indirect method which was even higher than for the direct method. No statistically significant differences existed between the two examiners in both methods. When using color transparencies for the indirect method, there is a high degree of agreement between both methods. Only one characteristic, the “anatomic form”, showed significant differences in the sense that an unsatisfactory “anatomic form” is diagnosed more often by direct evaluation. Therefore, the indirect method, using color transparencies, is reliable in assessing quality of amalgam restorations except for “anatomic form”. When using bite‐wing radiographs for the indirect method, unsatisfactory characteristics were diagnosed more frequently indirectly than directly. On the basis of the results, it was concluded that bite‐wing radiographs are indispensable in examining amalgam restorations.
Social factors and oral hygiene habits among caries free children in a low fluoride area in Sri Lanka
Authors: Warnakulasuriya K. A. A. S.
Published: May 2006

Abstract The relationship of tooth cleaning habits and caries free status of a group of 13–16‐yr‐old children who were not subjected to any caries preventive measures in Sri Lanka were studied. Despite lack of prevention, 31 % of the subjects were caries free, and a higher proportion of these were boys. All subjects reported brushing their teeth at least once a day. The study failed to show any relationship between either brushing frequency or the use of brush or finger for tooth cleaning, and caries. Although social status by father's employment was not related to the caries status, it was seen that a higher proportion of children of employed mothers' were caries free. Significant differences in oral hygiene habits except brushing frequency were noted among different social groups.
Comparisons of dental maturity between the rural community of Kuhmo in northeastern Finland and the city of Helsinki
Authors: Nyström Marjatta , Ranta Reijo , Kataja Matti , Silvola Hilkka
Published: May 2006

Abstract The aim of the study was to check whether dental maturity charts made in southern Finland can be used without modifications in other parts of the country. For this reason the dental maturity of 90 children living in the sparsely populated areas of Kuhmo in northeastern Finland was compared with that of a larger sample of Helsinki children. Most of the Kuhmo children were 7.0–8.5 and 10.5–12.5 yr of age. The method of Demirjian and associates was used to estimate dental maturity. The means of dental maturity scores were greater in Kuhmo in most half‐year groups in both sexes. The median dental maturity scores of Kuhmo children were between the 50th and 84th percentile curves of Helsinki children. A referent of the same age and sex was chosen for each Kuhmo child from the Helsinki children. The paired r‐test was based on the difference in dental age. The dental age of the Kuhmo children was higher (P<0.05). These findings suggest differences in dental maturity within a fairly homogeneous population, which should be considered when national charts are used.