Preventive Oral Health Program Research Articles

Two years outcome of an individualized oral health preventive program for preschool children with neurodevelopmental disorders.

Limited data exist on the effectiveness of oral health preventive programs in children with Neurodevelopmental Disorders (NDD). The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an individualized preventive oral health program for preschool children with NDD at a rehabilitation center, over a two years period. In this study, 102 preschool children with NDD were assessed for caries (dmft), oral hygiene status (Green & Vermillion Index) and presence of developmental dental defects. An individualized preventive program was applied based on caries risk and children were followed for two years. Effectiveness of the program was assessed for caries and dental plaque change and explanatory individual factors were used in multivariate models. After two years prospective, dmft increased significantly from 1.1 (SD=2.7) to 2.04 (SD=3.6), while GVPI was reduced significantly from 1.8 (SD=0.9) to 1.4 (SD=0.9). Children in the moderate and high-risk groups missed significantly more follow-ups compared to the low caries risk group (p<.001) while older maternal age (OR=1.38, 95%CI=1.057-1.808) and consumption of more than three sugary snacks/day (OR=0.005, 95%CI=0-0.0794) were significantly correlated with dental caries. The individualized preventive program for preschool children with NDD was effective in improving oral hygiene but not dental caries status.

Impact of oral health preventive program using specialized audio and tactile aids in visually impaired school children. A cross-sectional study.

The maintenance of oral hygiene and subsequent health related issues in visually handicapped children is a challenging task. Hence, tools must be used to ensure good oral health in these children. The study aimed to analyze the effectiveness of preventive programs on oral health using specialized audio and tactile aids in visually impaired school children. 100 visually handicapped children were selected for the study. They were divided into two groups: Group A (Training using Braille) and Group B (training by means of audio aids). Children were trained using appropriate tools and oral health was assessed using Plaque and Gingival bleeding indices. Independent 'T-test' was used for comparing mean ± SD values. Statistically significant improvements in both plaque and gingival bleeding indices were obtained on follow-up observations at 3rd and 6th months. The use of specialized tactile and audio tools significantly improved the oral health status of visually impaired school children.

Dental caries and associated factors among Turkish children and adults: Findings from the 3rd National Oral Health Survey.

Information on the current status of oral health and related risk factors is lacking in Turkiye. This study aimed to evaluate dental caries and associated factors among the Turkish population using the findings of the third national oral health survey. This cross-sectional epidemiological survey was carried out between March and September in 2018 including five index ages and age groups (5-, 12-, 15-year-olds, 35-44 and 65-74 age groups). A multistage cluster sampling design was used to obtain a national representative sample of these age groups. Participants were interviewed face-to-face using a structured questionnaire, and oral examinations were performed based on the methods and criteria suggested by the World Health Organization. The adjusted prevalence ratio for dental caries was estimated considering sociodemographic and behavioural characteristics by using log-binomial and robust Poisson regression analysis in R and SAS software. After data cleaning, a total of 11 091 participants remained. The prevalence of dental caries was 76.5% (95% confidence interval: 75.4%-77.7%) and determined to be associated with age, dental visit, and pain or discomfort history during the previous year among the Turkish population. Prevalence was also associated with the mother's education level among 5-, 12- and 15-year-olds. For the 35-44 age group, individuals living in urban areas had lower dental caries than those living in rural areas. For 65-74 age group, none of the factors were significantly associated with dental caries. A high prevalence of dental caries was observed in Turkish children and adults. Therefore, it is necessary to strengthen current preventive oral health programs. Regular disease surveillance should be maintained. National oral health targets should be formulated in accordance with Turkiye's needs, resources and structure.

Barriers and enablers for oral health promotion programs amongst primary healthcare stakeholders in Qatar – a qualitative investigation

BackgroundOral health of preschool children remains a concern globally. Primary healthcare providers are in a vital position to support preventive oral care programmes. This study explored current practices, perception and barriers of primary health care professionals towards oral health promotion program of children in Qatar.MethodsThe qualitative research used focus group discussions and interviewed a total of 108 participants that were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Four major themes emerged and were analysed to explore contextual patterns within the data.ResultsParticipants acknowledged the high prevalence of caries in children and identified the causes in the local context which included parental practices, poor dietary habits, impact of culture lack of oral health knowledge, limitations in the healthcare system, and negative role of the media. However, complex barriers were exposed, including lack of time and ownership, system coordination between organizations, and lack of policy.ConclusionHealth professionals and bureaucrats involved in decision-making held a positive attitude towards oral health prevention programs and were enthusiastic to initiate and support these programs.

Effects of subjective oral and mental health on health-related quality of life (EQ-5D) in cancer survivors: The 8th Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (8th KNHANES, 2019-2020)

Objectives: This study aimed to prepare basic data to improve the health-related quality of life of cancer survivors by confirming their oral and mental health statuses and identifying factors affecting their health-related quality of life. Methods: Of all participants in the 8th KNHANES (2019–2020), adults aged 19 years or older who responded ‘yes’ to the diagnosis of cancer and 404 cancer survivors who responded ‘none’ to the current cancer prevalence item were selected as the final research participants. Multiple regression analysis was conducted to confirm the effect of cancer survivors’ oral and mental health on health-related quality of life. Results: Subjective oral health (p&lt;0.01), chewing problems (p&lt;0.05), subjective health (p&lt;0.001), and depression (p&lt;0.01) had an effect on health-related quality of life from multiple regression analyses. Conclusions: Therefore, oral and mental health promotion may improve health-related quality of life. Thus, it is necessary to recognize the importance of oral and mental health and implement preventive education and programs.

Caries experience and risk indicators of having decayed teeth among 65-year-olds in Oslo, Norway: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundMeeting the oral health needs of the increasing population of older adults presents a major challenge in dental care. Knowledge about the oral health status in the young-elderly age group is essential for the planning of future oral health education and prevention programs. The aims of the present study were therefore to investigate the caries experience among 65-year-olds in Oslo, Norway, and to explore associations between having decayed teeth and sociodemographic, behavioural, and biological factors.MethodsA random sample of 65‑year‑olds in Oslo answered a questionnaire and underwent clinical and radiographic examinations (n = 457, 52% men and 48% women) at the Research Clinic, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Oslo, between February and December 2019. Primary- and secondary coronal and root caries lesions, root remnants, and missing and restored teeth were recorded. Decayed teeth (DT) were defined as teeth with coronal- and root caries lesions that had progressed into dentine and root remnants, and the DMFT/S scores were calculated.ResultsThe mean number of teeth was 25 (SD: 4) and the mean DMFT was 19.4 (SD: 4.7). Thirty seven percent of the individuals had at least one decayed tooth (DT > 0), and the mean number of filled teeth (FT) was 16.1 (SD: 5.4). Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that male gender (OR: 1.8, 95% CI: 1.2–2.8), basic level of education (OR: 1.9, 95% CI: 1.2–2.9), irregular dental attendance (OR: 2.2, 95% CI: 1.0-4.8), and hyposalivation (OR: 2.1, 95% CI: 1.0-4.4) were significant risk indicators for having decayed teeth (DT > 0) (p < 0.05).ConclusionsIn conclusion, 65-year-olds in Oslo had a low average number of decayed and missing teeth, and a high number of restored teeth. Irregular dental attendance and hyposalivation were the strongest risk indicators for having decayed teeth. Based on the present results, it will be important to ensure access to regular dental care and to increase the emphasis on caries preventive measures for individuals with hyposalivation in this age group.

Social determinants of health for moderate and severe periodontal disease in rural and urban populations.

We assessed the prevalence of moderate and severe periodontitis and its association with social determinants of health in rural and urban population from the State of Chiapas, in Southern Mexico. A cross-sectional population-based study was conducted in 2013 comprising people 20 years and older. The determinants were categorized as proximal (age, sex, indigenous origin, diabetes, smoking, diet), intermediate (level of schooling, occupation, medical and dental care), and structural (type of institution of health care provision, residence area). Periodontal status was assessed using the Periodontal Screening and Recording (PSR) Index. In total, 467 persons (72.4% women; mean age 43.0 years [s.d 14.7]) participated. Of them, 76.5% lived in rural areas and 56.7% were of indigenous origin. Participants with moderate and severe periodontitis had a significantly lower toothbrushing frequency (44.1% and 44.8%, respectively), and poorer oral hygiene (90% and 90.3%, respectively) compared with people without periodontitis (29.4% for toothbrushing frequency and 74.5% for oral hygiene). Moderate periodontitis was associated with poor oral hygiene (OR=2.63) and no schooling (OR=1.86). Severe periodontitis was associated with age (OR=1.05), poor oral hygiene (OR=3.99), no schooling (OR=2.08), and the interaction term of rural area and indigenous origin (RM=5.23). Social determinants of health play an important role in the development of periodontitis. Preventive oral health programs should thus focus on the specific social, economic, and geographical context of the population.

Patterns in Oral Hygiene and Dietary Habits in School Children during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

To assess oral hygiene and dietary patterns in school children participating in a school-based preventive oral health program during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this cross-sectional study, an anonymous questionnaire exploring oral hygiene and dietary patterns during the COVID-19 pandemic was completed by parents of school children. Data were compared among different schools, school years, and between genders using nonparametric tests. Associations among further nominal and categorical variables related to oral hygiene and dietary habits were also assessed using the chi-square test. Only 26% (n = 32) of parents reported that their children brushed their teeth the recommended amount of twice or more per day during the pandemic. In addition, 17.2% of the parents reported less brushing than before the pandemic. A total of 40 parents (32.8%) reported that their child consumed unhealthy beverages once a day or more. Comparison between genders revealed that male participants were drinking significantly unhealthier than female (p = 0.038). Sugary foods were consumed once a day or more by 63.1% of children. No significant differences were found between public and church schools. Significant direct associations were found between changes in dietary habits and brushing frequency (p = 0.017), between parental concern regarding the interruption of the school program and decreased brushing frequency (p = 0.005), and negative changes in dietary habits (p = 0.013). Within the limitations of this study, the present significant findings observed during the pandemic support the importance of school programs in promoting oral hygiene and healthy dietary habits of children. Agius A-M, Gatt G, Cortes ARG, et al. Patterns in Oral Hygiene and Dietary Habits in School Children during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2023;16(2):205-210.

Management of Oral Hygiene in Head-Neck Cancer Patients Undergoing Oncological Surgery and Radiotherapy: A Systematic Review.

In the literature, among oral health prevention programs dedicated to cancer patients, a wide heterogeneity is evident. The purpose of this work is to analyze the available scientific evidence for the treatment of head and neck cancer (HNC) patients undergoing resective surgery and radiotherapy and to draw up a diversified oral hygiene protocol during oncological therapy. PubMed was used as database. Studies published from 2017 to September 2022 were analyzed. Studies investigating the effectiveness of the preventive procedures carried out by the dental professionals in HNC patients undergoing postoperative adjuvant therapy have been taken into account. The application of the search string on PubMed allowed the selection of 7184 articles. The systematic selection of articles led to the inclusion of 26 articles in this review, including 22 RCTs, 3 observational studies, and 1 controlled clinical study. Articles were divided according to the debated topic: the management of radiation-induced mucositis, xerostomia, the efficacy of an oral infection prevention protocol, and the prevention of radiation-induced caries. Dental hygienists are fundamental figures in the management of patients undergoing oncological surgery of the maxillofacial district. They help the patient prevent and manage the sequelae of oncological therapy, obtaining a clear improvement in the quality of life.

Current knowledge about early childhood caries in the gulf cooperation council with worldwide reflection: Scoping review of the scientific literature (2010-2021).

Early childhood caries (ECC) is one of the most prevalent chronic childhood diseases affecting the primary teeth of children younger than 6 years of age. The disease etiology is complex and includes social, biological, and dietary factors. This review aims to explore the knowledge of ECC prevalence globally and locally within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries during the years 2010-2021. Another aim is to explore oral health promotion programs with more focus on the GCC region. A search was conducted in PubMed, Medline, Scopus, the Cochrane Collaboration database, and Google Scholar to identify relevant studies published between 2010 and 2021 using specific keywords. Studies that utilized both the World Health Organization criteria and International Caries Detection and Assessment System for dental caries assessment were included. The included studies indicated considerable variation in the reported prevalence of ECC. While developed countries show low prevalence, countries in the GCC and other Arab countries show a high prevalence of ECC. Many oral health promotion programs were identified globally including oral health education, nutritional programs, the use of fluoride and pit-and-fissure sealants, and inter-professional population-based oral health promotion and prevention programs such as school-based oral health programs, motivational interviewing, and anticipatory guidance. ECC remains a significant problem in many parts of the world including the GCC region. Oral health prevention programs have been established within the GCC region. Nevertheless, the GCC region has some unique characteristics that need to be investigated to contextualize the western model of the dynamics of ECC prevention and promotion programs locally.

The 20-Year Trends in Caries and Associated Determinants among Adults in Post-Soviet Lithuania: Repeated Cross-Sectional Studies

Aim: The aim of the study was to examine the 20-year trend in dental caries and associated determinants among adults in Lithuania after the country restored its independence. Material and Methods: Data from two cross-sectional national surveys included samples of 35–44-year-olds (adults) and 65–74-year-olds (early elderly). The 1997/1998 survey (first survey) recruited a stratified random sample of 569 individuals from 10 selected areas in Lithuania (response rate 52%), and the 2017/2019 survey (second survey) recruited a stratified random sample of 723 individuals from 5 biggest Lithuanian cities and one randomly selected peri-urban/rural area from each of 10 Lithuanian counties (response rate 53%). The information about the social (sex, residence, education) and behavioral (toothbrushing frequency, use of fluoridated toothpaste, and last dental visit) determinants was collected via self-reports using the World Health Organization (WHO) Oral Health Questionnaire for Adults questions. Information about the fluoride level in the drinking water was retrieved from the water suppliers. Dental caries was recorded at the surface level following the WHO criteria by two calibrated examiners, one at each of the national surveys. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were used. Results: According to multivariable negative binomial regression analysis, in adults, 67% lower DS scores (IRR 0.33, 95% CI 0.26–0.42) and in early elderly 47% lower DS scores (IRR 0.53, 95% CI 0.38–0.74) were observed in the second survey. Adults in the second survey (vs. first survey) had 62% lower MT scores (IRR 0.38, 95% CI 0.32–0.46), and the early elderly had 19% lower MT scores (IRR 0.81, 95% CI 0.72–0.92). Adults in the second survey had 21% lower DMFT scores (IRR 0.79, 95% CI 0.73–0.85). The changes in behavioral determinants were observed over the 20-year period. Conclusion: An improvement in dental health during the 20-year period, mainly related to reduction in untreated caries and missing teeth, was observed in adults and early elderly. However, early elderly still had high numbers of missing teeth. The decrease in total caries experience during the 20 years was significant only in adults. Our findings support an urgent need to design and implement national oral health promotion and prevention programs with increased focus on oral self-care and fluoridated toothpaste use.

Age, Reason, and Experiences Regarding the First Dental Visit among Children Belonging to Lucknow

Background: According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry guidelines, the first dental visit of a child is within 6 months of age. The need of such early visits is to help dentists to detect and treat incipient lesions, to educate parents about proper oral hygiene maintenance and the importance of diet and fluorides. Moreover, the visit helps the child to understand and adapt to the dental setup, thereby showing a positive dental attitude in future visits. Aim: The aim of this study was to find out the age at which children receive dental care for the first time and the reasons for such dental visits. Subjects and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry, wherein a questionnaire was provided to the parents of pediatric patients attending the outpatient department for their first dental visit, which included the sociodemographic details along with the questions related to their first dental visit, reason, and experiences regarding their visit. Results: On average, children reported for their first dental visit only after 5 years of age for the complaints such as pain and dental caries. Thus, indicating oral health education and preventive treatment program are yet to reach the general population. Conclusion: From the present study, it was evident that necessary awareness regarding the first dental visit is very low, with the subjects approaching the dentist after the establishment of ill oral health, thus demanding interception rather than prevention of diseases.

Family behavior theory-based intervention via mobile messaging to improve oral health of adolescents: study protocol for a cluster randomized controlled trial

BackgroundDue to some unique physical, social and psychological features in the adolescent population, adolescents can be a time of heightened caries activity and periodontal disease. Oral health-related behaviors can be modified to improve oral health status. The family networks and the built environment can promote or inhibit health behaviors. The aim of this study is to implement and evaluate a behavior theory-based, integrated family intervention via mobile messaging to improve oral health of adolescents.MethodsThis is a three-arm parallel-design cluster-randomized controlled trial. This trial will allocate 12 local secondary schools (clusters) in Hong Kong to three test or comparison groups with a ratio 1:1:1. The enrolled Form II to IV students (ages 12 to 15) will be eligible for participation. The intervention to three study groups will be (i) Health Belief Model (HBM)-based mobile messaging to the adolescents and their parents, which will consist of several blocks of HBM-based messages and reinforcement during 24 weeks; (ii) same HBM-based messaging to adolescents only; and (iii) delivering e-version of oral health education pamphlets to adolescents. The primary outcome will be caries increment 2 years post-intervention. Changes in oral health self-efficacy and behaviors, oral hygiene, and gingival status will be the secondary outcomes.DiscussionNo school dental care service is available to secondary school students in Hong Kong. This study will be the first to test a theory-driven and family-engaged preventive intervention among adolescents in Hong Kong. Findings will contribute to developing a low-cost, feasible, and efficient oral health preventive program for adolescents.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.govNCT05448664. Registered on 7 July 2022.

Oral Health in 12- and 15-Year-Old Children in Serbia: A National Pathfinder Study.

The aim of the paper is to present the oral health profile of 12- and 15-year-old schoolchildren in Serbia. Basic Methods for Oral Health Surveys of the WHO were implemented to record: Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth/Surfaces Index (DMFT/DMFS), gingival bleeding, enamel fluorosis and other structural anomalies, dental erosion, dental trauma, and oral mucosal lesions. In addition, Silness and Löe plaque index and orthodontic status were assessed. A total of 36% of 12-year-olds and 22% of 15-year-olds in Serbia were caries-free. The mean DMFT was 2.32 ± 2.69 for 12-year-olds and 4.09 ± 3.81 for 15-year-olds. DMFT was made up largely by the decayed component. Gingival bleeding was present in 26% of examined 12-year-old and 18% of 15-year-old children. Dental plaque was observed in 63% of both 12- and 15-year-olds. Fluorosis, structural anomalies, dental erosion, dental trauma, and oral mucosal lesion were rarely detected. Low prevalence of malocclusions was found. Oral disease is still a common public health problem among schoolchildren in Serbia. A significant increase in the prevalence of caries disease between 12- and 15-year-old groups implies that preventive care for adolescents requires special attention. Corrective actions and reforms to the current school-based oral health prevention program are needed to further improve oral health in Serbian children.

Caries management using silver diamine fluoride and providing domiciliary dental care for dependent older adults: Aqualitative study of Swiss dentists.

Maintaining the oral health of dependent older adults is challenging, with limited access to dental care and limited focus on preventive oral health programmes. This study aimed to evaluate the attitudes of General Dental Practitioners (GDPs), working in Switzerland, to caring for dependent older adults with a focus on the use of silver diamine fluoride (SDF) as a caries preventive agent and more widely on the provision of domiciliary dental care (DDC). Seventeen GDPs working in Switzerland were interviewed. Each interview was semi-structured by a topic guide, digitally recorded, and transcribed. The transcribed data were analysed using a thematic analysis. Three major themes to the widespread use of SDF in this population were identified: lack of basic knowledge including indications for use; aesthetic concerns and product availability. Those who had knowledge about the product believed that using it in the treatment of frail older adults had advantages, especially in the preservation and/or prolongation of the life of teeth without invasive treatments. The biggest barrier was its availability. The GDPs identified three major barriers related to DDC provision: lack of infrastructure, poor financial rewards and safety concerns (patient and operator safety). Those who provided this service stated that they were doing it because of self-motivation, kindness, or as a role in community service. The potential use of SDF was viewed positively by the majority of the GDPs interviewed but confusion exists over its availability in Switzerland, and other barriers were identified to more widespread use in this patient group. The GDPs interviewed in this study reported that a lack of infrastructure and a low level of remuneration continue to be barriers to more of them undertaking DDC for dependent older adults.

Relationship between obesity and dental caries experience in patients attending Tagore Dental College, Chennai, India: A cross-sectional survey

Objectives: This study aims to assess the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and dental caries experience among the patients attending the outpatient department of Tagore Dental College, Chennai, India. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study with a convenient sampling technique was employed in the outpatient department of Tagore Dental College, Chennai, India. Obesity was recorded by measuring the BMI. Dental caries experience was recorded using the World Health Organization’s recommended “decayed missing and filled teeth (DMFT)” method. Statistical analysis was performed using the Chi-square test and Student’s (unpaired) t-test. P &lt; 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Dental caries prevalence was 81.9% with a mean DMFT score of 4.23 ± 3.56. Among the study participants, 69.4% were normal weight, 22.9% were overweight, and 6.8% were underweight. No significant association was found between gender with BMI and caries experience. Conclusion: The prevalence of dental caries was high among the sampled population but the majority of the sampled population had normal BMI. To address public health concerns connected to dental caries, additional oral health prevention programs and policies should be implemented.

Oral Health Preventive Program in Patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

The aim of the study was to evaluate clinical hygienic parameters, patient collaboration, and dental habits in patients with ASD (autism spectrum disorder) before and after a tailored prevention program. A total of 100 patients (78 males and 22 females, mean age 8 ± 0.7 years old) was recruited, with ages ranging from 7 to 16 years old, and diagnoses of ASD. We evaluated the plaque index (IP), gingival index (IG), the dmft/DMFT, the frequency of tooth brushing, and the frequency of snacks for each patient. Patient behaviour was evaluated with the Frankl scale, and each patient was individually reassessed after five visits from the first one by the same operator. The t test was used to compare the parameters before and after the inclusion in the dedicated dental pathway. From T1 to T2 we found a significant improvement of the IP (p < 0.001), IG (p < 0.001), and the frequency of tooth brushing (p < 0.001). Concerning the frequency of snacks and the parameter dmft/DMFT, the differences in the observed averages were not significant (p > 0.05). The difference in collaboration between T1 and T2 evaluated by the Frankl scale was statistically significant (p < 0.001). It was found that the prevention program allowed a significant improvement in both clinical parameters and patient behaviour. The personalized digital supports can have a key role for success in familiarization and desensitization processes of patients affected by ASD, leading an increase in their collaboration.

Prevalence and pattern of dental caries in primary molars among Libyan school children in Benghazi

Aims: To assess prevalence and severity of dental caries in primary teeth among Libyan school children in Benghazi. Study design: Cross sectional observational study. Material and Methods: A total of 236 school children, aged 8-9 years were selected for a dental examination. The oral health was measured using World Health Organization (WHO) diagnostic criteria for dental caries: decayed, missing and filled tooth, dmft index for primary dentition. Results: The overall caries prevalence was 83.5% (mean dmft 3.3) with the highest caries prevalence recorded among 8 year-old children (45.3%, mean dmft 3.53). Mean decayed, missing and filled teeth (dmft) was 2.91, 0.31, 0.09 respectively. Second primary molars had higher dmft than the first (mean dmft 1.72, 1.33 respectively) and the difference was statistically significant p=0.001. The mean dmft of mandibular primary molars was higher than that of maxillary ones (mean dmft 1.67, 1.38) and the differences was statistically significant p=0.01. Conclusion: While the prevalence of dental caries in primary teeth was found to be high, the treated and filled teeth are very low. The most commonly affected teeth were second primary molars, especially in the mandible. Dental caries occurred most often in the mandible. This study provided us with the baseline data for prevalence of dental caries. Providing oral health education and preventive programs would assist in improving the oral health condition of school children.

Managing oral health care and prevention: The experience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders living in a rural community in Queensland, Australia

ObjectiveTo understand the experience of rural Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in engaging with oral health care services and programs in order to support the development of oral health services and prevention programs that better meet their needs.DesignThe study used a qualitative research design, which aims to describe participants' lived experience of engaging with oral health services and prevention programs in a rural Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community. Focus group discussions and in‐depth interviews were conducted with 27 participants. The 15 transcribed discussions were analysed using a 6‐step phenomenological process.SettingA rural community in Queensland, Australia, with a predominantly Aboriginal population.ParticipantsParticipants were purposively recruited from established health and community groups.Main outcomeSystem‐level barriers to accessing and engaging with oral health services and prevention influence how communities manage oral health and seek treatment.ResultsThe study identified 4 main themes describing the community's experience: service location and the efforts required to access oral health services; the financial burden of accessing oral health care and practising prevention; lack of confidence in oral health services; and the avoidance or delaying of accessing care for dental problems. Results confirmed a high burden of oral disease but limited attendance at an oral health facility and difficulties engaging in preventative oral health behaviours. Treatment seeking was usually instigated by the experience of pain and typically at a tertiary health facility.ConclusionAboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in rural communities experience a high burden of oral disease but have limited engagement with oral health services. This is associated with system‐level barriers to accessing and engaging with oral health services and prevention.

Perception of Pediatric Oncological Patients and Their Parents/Guardians about a Hospital Oral Health Program: A Qualitative Study

Background:The oral healthcare offered to pediatric cancer patients at the hospital level must include educational and preventive strategies based on dialogical and welcoming professional attitudes. Therefore, the current study aimed to evaluate the perception of pediatric cancer patients and their parents/guardians about an educational and preventive oral healthcare program implemented in a reference hospital for cancer treatment. Methods:A qualitative follow-up investigation was conducted in which we evaluated the perception of pediatric cancer patients and their parents/guardians regarding an educational and preventive oral health program (OHEPP). The participants were 27 children and adolescents undergoing cancer treatment and their parents/guardians, and the assessment was carried out at 15 and 30 days after beginning the program through semi-structured interviews. The program used audiovisual resources, storytelling and playful instruments for the oral health education of patients and parents/guardians. The interviews were then transcribed and the Discourse of the Collective Speech (DCS) technique was performed for data analysis. Results:Patients and parents/guardians reported improvement in oral hygiene habits and conditions. Patients reported greater enthusiasm for oral care and highlighted the recreational aspect of the program. Parents/guardians reported being more clear about oral changes and paying attention to the appearance of comorbidities resulting from anticancer treatment. Conclusions:This study suggests that implementation of the oral health program favored communication between health professionals, patients and their parents/guardians, expanding knowledge and generating behavior change in oral healthcare.