Oral Health-related Knowledge Research Articles

Physiotherapy students’ oral health related knowledge, attitudes and practices at an identified institution of higher learning in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Background Oral self-care health is integral to general health. However limited studies reflect physiotherapy students’ dental practices such as frequency of toothbrushing, toothbrush replacement, use of oral rinses, dental flossing, use of interdental aids or knowledge of dental plaque. Study objectives This study assessed knowledge, perceptions and oral self-care practices among physiotherapy students. This descriptive cross-sectional survey recruited second- third-, and fourth-year physiotherapy students at an identified training institution in South Africa by means of a self-administered questionnaire ResultsA total of 137 students participated in the study with a response rate of 83%. Participants indicated that 58%(n=79) had good knowledge and 85% (n=117) reported oral self-care practices. Almost all participants (99%; n=136) used a brush with toothpaste; 76% (n=104) brushed twice daily; 53% (n=72) replaced their toothbrush every 3 months and 48% (n=66) rinsed their mouth after eating. More than two-thirds of the study sample (62%; n= 84) used an interdental aid and (37%; n=50) reported dental visits once a year with (74%; n=100) only when necessary. From these 96% (n=132) experienced barriers such as costs (54%; n=71) and inadequate time (42%; n = 55). The majority of participants (72%; n=98) supported oral self-care be included in the physiotherapy curriculum. ConclusionAlthough there were inconsistencies in physiotherapy students’ reported oral health-related knowledge, perceptions and self-care practices, the majority of participants supported the inclusion of dental health into the undergraduate physiotherapy curriculum. This will enhance interprofessional education and improve oral health outcomes for both students and patients.

Evaluation of oral-health related knowledge and attitudes among mothers of children under 4 years old.

To evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of mothers of children under 4 years old about oral health in Turkey. This study is a cross-sectional questionnaire submitted to 401 mothers with children aged under of 4 years who came to the Pediatric Dentistry Clinics of Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa and Altınbaş University Faculty of Dentistry. The questionnaire comprised of 3 sections with total of 33 closed questions regarding socio-demographic information and knowledge and attitudes of the mothers about the oral health of their children. The independent t-test and the Pearson's correlation test were used. In conclusion, it has been noted that mothers who regularly visit the dentist have a greater understanding of oral hygiene. Additionally, mothers who possess knowledge about oral care are more likely to prioritize scheduling appointments for their children with a paediatric dentist for check-up purposes.

Oral health related knowledge, attitude and behavior among group of mothers in relation to their primary school children's oral health: a cross-sectional study.

The etiology of oral diseases in children is complex and multifactorial. The oral health of children can be influenced by various factors, including parental knowledge, attitudes and behaviors, as well as socioeconomic status. The objective of this study was to assess, among mothers of children aged 6-12 years, (1) mothers' knowledge about their children's oral health, (2) mothers' attitude toward their children's oral health, and (3) mothers' dental behavior concerning their oral health and to evaluate their influence on their children's dental caries. This cross-sectional study involved three questionnaires to be filled in by mothers of primary school children in addition to an oral examination of their children to measure decayed, missing, filled teeth for primary (dmft) and permanenet (DMFT) dentitions. The mother-child pairs were recruited through multistage stratified random sampling of primary schools in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire was comprised of four sections: 1-demographic characteristics and socioeconomic status 2-Hiroshima University Dental Behavioral Inventory (mothers' attitudes and behavior pertaining to their oral health) 3-mothers' knowledge regarding the oral health of their children 4-mothers' attitude toward their children oral health. A total of 1496 mother-child pairs completed the study. The mean values of dmft were 4.08 ± 3.47; DMFT was 1.82 ± 2.07; total dmft and DMFT were 5.65 ± 4.05. According to the questionnaire results, mothers in private schools had a more favorable attitude and behavior toward their oral health, as well as a more favorable knowledge and attitude toward their children's oral health. The multiple linear regression model revealed that children's dmft/DMFT scores were significantly related to mother education, mother questionnaire scores, and the Simplified Oral Hygiene Index. Children's oral health is significantly impacted by oral health-related knowledge, attitude and behaviors of their mothers in addition to income status and education level.

Impact of smartphone application ‘Dent-O-Xpert’ on oral health related knowledge, attitude and behavior of young adults – A randomized control trial

BackgroundMaintaining optimal oral health requires a combination of knowledge, awareness, and consistent behavioral practices. Smartphone technology has revolutionized various aspects of modern life, including healthcare. The widespread smartphone usage in India offers an opportunity to study its positive influence on oral health behaviors. Aimto assess the impact of smartphone application “Dent-O-Xpert” on oral health-related knowledge, attitude, and behavior among young adults. MethodsThe randomized double-blind controlled trial involved 168 young adults aged 18–25 from professional institutions in Indore, India. The intervention group received oral health education through “Dent-O-Xpert” smartphone application with educational content, interactive modules, reminders and personalized recommendations, while the control group received traditional oral health sessions. Primary outcome measure including knowledge, attitude, behavior, and oral hygiene were evaluated through validated questionnaires and clinical examinations at baseline, 1 month, and 2 months. The data were analyzed using SPSS-23. ResultsThe Dent-O-Xpert group showed significantly improved oral health knowledge scores at both follow-ups. By second follow-up visit, both plaque and oral hygiene scores were significantly reduced in Dent-O-Xpert group (0.25 ± 0.4) compared to control group (0.71 ± 0.48). Tooth-brushing frequency (96.4 %), brushing techniques (59.5 %), timely toothbrush changes (97.6 %), and use of supplementary oral hygiene aids (31–35.7 %) improved in the Dent-O-Xpert group. Attitudes toward oral health care were also more positive in this group. No significant changes in oral health behavior and attitude were observed in the control group. Conclusionthe study findings indicate that Dent-O-Xpert smartphone application is effective in improving the oral health related knowledge, attitude and behavior.

Oral Health Knowledge and its Associated Factors Among Universiti Putra Malaysia Staff

Introduction: Oral health knowledge ensures that the person has all the requisite information to find out which oral diseases are and how they occur and recognize the security measures that must be taken. This knowledge can lead to changes in attitude, which leads to changes in the person’s everyday life. This study aims to evaluate oral health-related knowledge and determine its associated factors among Universiti Putra Malaysia staff. Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 207 UPM staff. The study included the UPM Malaysian staff (permanent, temporary, contract), and excluded foreigners and staff on leave. Stratified random sampling was used to select a representative sample with five selected faculties. Oral health knowledge was assessed with a validated and pretested questionnaire. Results: The total respondents were 162 from 207 subjects, giving a response rate of 78.3%. In this study, more than half of the participants have satisfactory knowledge (56.2%). The results show a significant association between oral health knowledge and each of: level of education, monthly income, faculty, type of staff, and smoking. It is observed that postgraduate staff are more knowledgeable towards oral health with 63.2% compared to graduate level and below with 39.6% only. In addition, the staff with higher incomes are more likely to have satisfactory knowledge compared to the working staff with lower incomes with percentage up to 20%. Regarding the source of information association, none of the factors is found to have a significant association. Conclusion: More than half of the participants have satisfactory knowledge on oral health. Despite this, a significant proportion of staff have unsatisfactory knowledge, which suggests initiating an awareness program for the staff members to increase their knowledge of oral health.

Enabling educator oral health literacy: An impetus for oral health promotion in early childhood development.

This study reports on the process evaluation of an oral health promotion intervention for educators (principals and teachers) at early childhood development (ECD) centres within a low-socioeconomic community in South Africa. This approach was based on the premise that oral health literacy plays a significant role in shaping personal health and serves as an impetus to influence change in others. Using a cross-sectional, descriptive study design, 91 educators participated in the oral health intervention as part of their 1-year ECD training programme. The pre-test questionnaire measured perceived dental status, oral health-related knowledge, attitudes and practices and impact of oral health problems on oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL). The post-test questionnaire evaluated the usefulness of the oral health workshop to participants, intentions for personal change as well as for the inclusion of oral health in their ECD centre programme. Participants reported: having their natural teeth (80%), being happy with their mouth (56.2%), having oral problems (34%), inadequate oral hygiene practices (43%), dental visits when symptomatic (74%), a compromised OHRQoL and inadequate knowledge of oral problems experienced. Oral health promotion activities at ECD centres were limited, with only 34% reporting on toothbrushing programmes. Following the intervention, participants reported positively on aspects such as, the value of the workshop for themselves and their ECD centres, intentions for personal change to hygiene practices (56%), dietary practices (76%) and dental visits (63%). The incorporation of oral health education in their ECD centres was mentioned by most educators. Daily toothbrushing was noted by up to 40% while some highlighted their engagement with parents. Building oral health literacy among educators has the potential for personal change and serves as an impetus to introduce oral health promotion programmes at ECD centres. The findings may be used to advocate for oral health partnerships with established community-based structures to increase access to oral care in ECD centres in underserved communities.

Oral health related knowledge in a disadvantaged population group

Oral health related knowledge in a disadvantaged population group

Prevention of caries and obesity in children with immigrant background in Norway- a study protocol for a cluster randomized controlled trial

BackgroundImmigrants are known to experience greater socioeconomic stress and poorer well-being and to suffer more from lifestyle- and diet-related disorders than native populations. There is also evidence that children of immigrant parents are at greater risk of diverse health problems than their host country cohorts. The aim of this study is to apply and evaluate the efficacy of an early life intervention program among parents/children with immigrant background to prevent childhood caries and obesity, thereby improving the children’s general health, oral health, and quality of life.MethodsThis is a study protocol for a cluster randomized controlled intervention follow-up study. In phase I of the study, the primary care health centers in the municipality of Bergen, Norway were randomly allocated to intervention or control groups. The intervention was carried out using the motivational interviewing technique and the common risk factor approach. The intervention group received guidance on diet/oral hygiene and the control group received standard care information. Parental knowledge and children at age 3 and 5 years old will be assessed in a prospective phase II follow-up study compared to native Norwegian controls. The primary outcome will be evaluation of change on parental oral health related knowledge and attitudes. The secondary outcome will assess the impact of the intervention on children’s caries -, body mass index- and oral health related quality of life.DiscussionCollaboration between dental public health and primary health care personnel on the common risk approach motivational intervention offers opportunities to address key dietary behaviors that may prevent obesity and dental caries. Providing sustainable preventive measures decreases the burden of diseases and consequently reduces health inequalities, particularly among at-risk children.Trial RegistrationThe study is registered as a clinical trial (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05758454: 7 March 2023). Ethical approval has already been granted by the Regional Ethical Committee (REK) (2015/ 27,639 /REK vest) and Sikt – Norwegian Agency for Shared Services in Education and Research (Reference number 778825).

Knowledge, Attitude and Practices of Parents toward (Infant & Child) Oral Health in Family Medicine Center at PSMMC, Riyadh

Background: The aim of this study was to assess the infant/child oral health (IOH) related knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) of parents in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 327 parents. Visiting the family medicine center at prince sultan military medical city, Riyadh Saudi Arabia. A 39-item questionnaire covering sociodemographic characteristics and questions pertaining to KAP regarding OH care will used to collect the data. Descriptive statistics, Student's t-test, one-way analysis of variance, and Scheffe’s test will use for the statistical analysis (P ≤ 0.05). Results: The result showed that majority of the parents had good knowledge regarding OH, knowledge of cleaning (92.4%) and knowledge of amount of sugar (88.1%). The parents of age group (30 to 39) years (n=147) reported the highest mean (knowledge, attitudes, and practice) scores among all other age groups with a knowledge mean score of (6.80± 1.73), an attitude mean score of (8.86±1.37), and a practice mean score of (5.14± 1.86). Female parents showed a significantly higher mean knowledge, attitude and practices scores than the male parents. In addition, middle income level parents’ group (n=295) reported higher knowledge mean score compared to low-income parents’ group (n=15) with mean difference d=1.15, p=.041. Conclusion: Parents knowledge about maintaining oral and dental health care for infant/child was inadequate. Essentially, medical professionals are the initial ones to interact with expecting and new moms. Therefore, need to raise parents’ awareness about oral and dental health for infants/ child, through develop and implementation long-term education and promotions programs.

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices of Parents toward (Infant & Child) Oral Health in Family Medicine Center at PSMMC, Riyadh

Background: Early childhood caries may develop as soon as teeth erupt. Promoting oral health care programs is very important and helps to reduce dental caries in young children. The aim of this study was to assess the infant/child oral health (IOH) related knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of parents in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 327 parents. Visiting the family medicine center at prince sultan military medical city, Riyadh Saudi Arabia. A 39-item questionnaire covering socio-demographic characteristics and questions pertaining to KAP regarding OH care will be used to collect the data. Descriptive statistics, Student’s t-test, one-way analysis of variance, and Scheffe’s test will use for the statistical analysis (p ≤ 0.05). Results: The result showed that the majority of the parents had good knowledge regarding OH, knowledge of cleaning (92.4.%), and knowledge of the amount of sugar (88.1.%). the parent’s age group (30 to 39) years (n =147) reported the highest mean (knowledge, attitudes, and practice) scores among all other age groups with a knowledge mean score of (6.80 ± 1.73), an attitude mean score of (8.86 ± 1.37), and a practice mean score of (5.14 ± 1.86). Female parents showed significantly higher mean knowledge, attitude, and practice scores than male parents. In addition, the middle-income level parents’ group (n = 295) reported higher knowledge mean score compared to the low-income parents’ group (n = 15) with a mean difference of d = 1.15, p = .041. Conclusion: Parents’ knowledge about maintaining oral and dental health care for infants/children was inadequate. Essentially, medical professionals are the initial ones to interact with expecting and new moms. Therefore, need to raise parents’ awareness about oral and dental health for infants/children, through the development and implementation of long-term education and promotions programs.

Oral health literacy, knowledge and perceptions in a socially and culturally diverse population: a mixed methods study

BackgroundPoor oral health literacy has been proposed as a causal factor in disparities in oral health outcomes. This study aims to investigate oral health literacy (OHL) in a socially and culturally diverse population of Australian adults visiting a public dental clinic in Western Sydney.MethodsA mixed methods study where oral health literacy was assessed using the Health Literacy in Dentistry scale (HeLD-14) questionnaire and semi-structured interviews explored oral health related knowledge, perceptions and attitudes. Interviews were analysed using a thematic approach.ResultsA sample of 48 participants attending a public dental clinic in Western Sydney was recruited, with a mean age of 59.9 (SD16.2) years, 48% female, 50% born in Australia, 45% with high school or lower education, and 56% with low-medium OHL. A subgroup of 21 participants with a mean age of 68.1 (SD14.6) years, 40% female, 64% born in Australia, 56% with a high school or lower education, and 45% with low-medium OHL completed the interview. Three themes identified from the interviews included 1) attitudes and perceptions about oral health that highlighted a lack of agency and low prioritisation of oral health, 2) limited knowledge and education about the causes and consequences of poor oral health, including limited access to oral health education and finally 3) barriers and enablers to maintaining good oral health, with financial barriers being the main contributor to low OHL.ConclusionsStrategies aimed at redressing disparities in oral health status should include improving access to oral health information. The focus should be on the impact poor oral health has on general health with clear messages about prevention and treatment options in order to empower individuals to better manage their oral health.

A mobile augmented reality-integrated oral health education for community dwelling older adults: A pilot study

Providing oral healthcare education can be an optimal strategy for imparting knowledge and developing self-care skills for older adults to enhance their oral health conditions. However, traditional passive lecture-based education programs have several limitations. Integrating mobile augmented reality (MAR) into oral health education can potentially enhance the effectiveness of the education by mitigating those limitations. The objectives of this study are to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of MAR-integrated oral health education. The objectives of this study were to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of MAR-integrated oral health education. Twenty-four older adults from community dwellings participated in this study. The participants received MAR-integrated oral health education once at activity centers. Self-report questionnaires were utilized to assess oral healthcare-related knowledge and self-efficacy, and the usability score of the MAR system. The assessment was conducted before and after the educational program. Data were statistically analyzed using descriptive statistics and paired-t test. The mean scores of oral healthcare-related knowledge and self-efficacy showed a significant increase after the educational program, with P-values of <0.001 and 0.002, respectively. A majority of the participants exhibited a lack of knowledge and self-efficacy regarding the proper selection of toothpaste and interdental brushes. However, there was an improvement after the intervention. The usability score of the system was lower than the average level. MAR-integrated oral health education effectively increases oral health-related knowledge and self-efficacy among community dwelling older adults. Still, the usability of the MAR system needs to be improved. Further investigation of long-term effects and clinical outcomes, and the inclusion of comparative groups are recommended for the future study.

One-year oral health outcome of a community-based trial in schoolchildren aged 6-7 years old in Tehran, Iran.

Promoting schoolchildren's oral health is important, particularly in developing countries. This study was conducted to monitor the oral health of schoolchildren aged 6-7 years old following the implementation of an oral health promotion program in Tehran, Iran. The protocol was registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (Code: IRCT20090307001749N4). A cluster random sampling method was applied, and the schools were randomly allocated to intervention and control groups. An intervention package consisting of a one-day workshop for parents and supervised toothbrushing for children was employed. In both groups, the Caries Assessment Spectrum and Treatment (CAST) and Oral Hygiene Index Simplified (OHI-S) were evaluated at baseline and at one-year follow-up in addition to the questionnaire data. Clinical data were collected by calibrated examiners at both intervals (Kappa = 89.8%, 87.68%) and analyzed using the SPSS software ver. 22.0. Of 739 children included at baseline, 593 were re-examined after one year (response rate = 74%). According to the Generalized Estimating Equation (GEE) analysis, considering the confounding effect of time, significantly more children in the control group had deciduous molars with a score of 3 and higher compared to the intervention group (OR = 1.79; 95% CI:1.17-2.73, p = 0.007). The oral hygiene status of the children significantly improved in the intervention group compared to the controls (B = -0.27; 95% CI: -0.45 --0.08, p = 0.005). After one year, the improvement in the oral health-related attitude of parents and children's oral health behavior was marginally significant in the intervention group compared to the control group [0.2 (0.17) vs. -0.13 (0.05), p = 0.096] and [0.06 (0.06) vs. -0.05 (0.04), p = 0.09], respectively. However, the impact on the oral health-related knowledge and self-reported behavior of the parents was not significant. In the intervention group, children had less caries and a better oral hygiene status compared to the controls after one year.

Risk Indicators for Noncavitated and Cavitated Carious Lesions in Preschool Children

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to evaluate the risk indicators associated with noncavitated and cavitated lesions in preschool children. MethodsThe cross-sectional study included 3- to 4-year-old healthy children (N = 741) recruited in a randomised controlled clinical trial. After obtaining written informed consent, parents completed a questionnaire about their child's sociodemographic background and oral health–related behaviours and parents' oral health–related knowledge and attitude. Caries and plaque were evaluated using International Caries Detection and Assessment System-II and Visible Plaque Index (VPI), respectively. Children were grouped according to their oral health status as being caries-free (CF), having only noncavitated lesions (NC), or having cavitated lesions (CL). The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) sparse multinomial regression was used to study the variables using 1 standard error above the minimum criterion set at P < .05. ResultsThe prevalence of children with NC and CL was 29.1% and 49.4%, respectively, with a prevalence of early childhood caries being 78.5%. The proportion of children who brushed twice or more than twice a day was highest in CF (71.7%), followed by NC (58.3%), and was least in CL (57.7%). A higher percentage of CL children (56.2%) had twice or more than twice the frequency of between-meal snacking than CF (41.7%) and NC (41.1%) (P < .001) children. The variables included with non-zero coefficients in the model were mean parental oral health knowledge, attitude score, and children's mean VPI score, and all were significant for CL; however, in NC, only VPI score was found to be significant. ConclusionsPoor oral hygiene is the risk indicator associated with the presence of NC in preschool children, whilst poor oral hygiene and poor parental oral health knowledge and attitude are associated with the presence of cavitated lesions.

Oral Health related Knowledge, Practices and Quality of Life among School age Children

Oral Health related Knowledge, Practices and Quality of Life among School age Children

Mixed methods evaluation of an oral health education program for pediatric dental, medical and nursing providers.

To evaluate the application of knowledge, attitudes, and skills learned in an oral health education program among pediatric dental and medical residents, and pediatric and family nurse practitioners (PNPs and FNPs). A mixed methods study design included a year-end online survey and focus groups. Eighty participants completed the survey (94%) and seven focus groups were conducted (n = 69) representing each of the four cohorts in 2020-2022. Analysis of variance was used to assess differences in survey responses by dental/medical specialty. Focus group audio recordings were analyzed using Atlas.ti.22 to identify common themes. The program increased knowledge and skills in oral health core competencies and positive attitudes regarding oral health education. All PNPs (100%) and most pediatric medical residents (94%) and FNPs (91%) strongly agreed/agreed that the oral health program led to an increase in screening for early childhood caries, more confidence in applying fluoride varnish and providing oral health anticipatory guidance during patient visits. Most pediatric medical residents, PNPs and FNPS (98%) strongly agreed/agreed that primary care providers should incorporate oral health into their practice and provide referrals to dental professionals as part of well-child visits. The program improved oral health-related knowledge, attitudes and skills among dental and medical primary care providers. Future oral health education programs for health care professionals can use this model to help bridge the gap between dental and primary care and ultimately improve access to preventive oral health care for children and families.

Caregivers' knowledge, attitudes, and oral health practices at long-term care facilities in KwaZulu-Natal.

Vulnerable individuals residing at long-term care facilities require special oral health consideration. Examining concepts of oral health and hygiene practices of caregivers becomes essential for understanding the quality of oral health services provided to residents. This study explored the oral health-related knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) of caregivers. Long-term care facilities in the eThekwini District, KwaZulu-Natal. A cross-sectional study was conducted at seven long-term care facilities among 188 caregivers who completed a self-administered questionnaire. Data were collated and analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24. Inferential techniques included an analysis of variance (ANOVA) test. A p-value ≤ 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Participants reported that dentures do not to be cleaned (n = 139; 73.9%). Participants (n = 70; 37.2%) reported that some medications have oral side effects. Most participants (n = 173; 92%) were optimistic about improving their oral health knowledge and skills. Participants (n = 108; 57.4%) only reported flossing when they had food trapped between their teeth. Few participants (n = 30; 16%) reported visiting the dentist every 6 months. Participants had a positive attitude to improve their oral health-related knowledge and practices. However, the study showed that there is a need to scale-up oral health education and training activities for caregivers. It is envisaged that findings of this study will demonstrate the importance of oral health-related knowledge among caregivers in providing better oral health care through improved attitudes and practices.

Does using mobile applications and social media-based interventions induce beneficial behavioral changes among orthodontic patients?

Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and controlled clinical trials (CCTs). The protocol of the study was registered on the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO: CRD42019157298). Seven electronic databases (MEDLINE, Web of Science Core Collection, Unpublished Clinical Trials accessed through clinicaltrials.gov, Embase, LILACS, ProQuest Database, The Cochrane Library) were searched. Additionally, the reference lists of the included studies were hand searched. Clinical trials (RCT and CCT) that assessed the impact of the interventional use of mobile applications and social media among orthodontic patients were included. The review question was defined in PICO format as follows: population (P)= patients (no age restriction) undergoing orthodontic treatment using fixed, removable, or functional appliances, or patients in the retention phase that are wearing fixed or removable retainers; intervention (I)= mobile applications and social media-based interventions; comparison (C)= control group that did not receive any adjunctive intervention; outcome (O)= behavior changes in orthodontic patients after receipt of the intervention. Two authors independently conducted literature search from inception up to March 2021. Social media-based interventions and mobile applications (or bespoke) were used in the form of reminders (WhatsApp reminders) and provision of information including YouTube videos and Instagram posts. Primary outcomes included adherence to wearing appliances or adjuncts, oral hygiene levels, oral health-related behaviors, periodontal outcomes, appointment attendance, knowledge, and related iatrogenic effects. Treatment-related experiences and patient-reported outcomes were assessed as secondary outcomes. 16 studies (14 RCTs and 2 CCTs) were included in the qualitative synthesis, of which only 7 studies were included in the quantitative synthesis (meta-analysis). Results from meta-analyses showed that the intervention was favored in relation to gingival index (GI) (number of studies = 4, standardized mean difference [SMD] = -0.81, 95% confidence interval [CI] = -1.35 to -0.28, P = 0.00, certainty of evidence = very low), plaque index (PI) (number of studies = 7, SMD = -0.91 [95% CI, -1.64 to -0.19], P = 0.01, certainty of evidence = very low), and bleeding index (BI) (number of studies = 4, SMD = -0.22 [95% CI, -0.50 to 0.05], P = 0.11, certainty of evidence = high). Sensitivity analysis was performed (including additional 3 studies for GI and 5 studies for PI), which also favored the intervention in relation to GI (number of studies = 7, SMD = -0.60 [95% CI, -1.01 to -0.18], P = 0.00, certainty of evidence = very low), and PI (number of studies = 12, SMD = -0.67 [95% CI, -1.14 to -0.19], P = 0.01, certainty of evidence = very low). Limited evidence supports beneficial behavior change among orthodontic patients when using mobile applications or social media-based interventions.

A survey of pediatric oncology nurses’ oral health knowledge, attitudes, practices, and perceived barriers in a Singapore Tertiary Children’s Hospital

AimTo explore oral health-related knowledge, abilities, attitudes, practices, and barriers of pediatric oncology nurses at an Asian children’s hospital.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted via a self-administered anonymized questionnaire. Data was analyzed to summarize knowledge, confidence, and practice behaviors.ResultsAll sixty-three pediatric oncology nurses responded. Fifteen participants had >80% of the knowledge questions correct. Majority (97.3%) agreed on their roles in helping patients maintain their oral health. However, 75.8% of participants felt need for training in giving oral health advice. Notably, 74.6% checked patients’ mouths at least once daily but only 57.1% felt adequately trained. Though a high proportion (>90%) of nurses felt confident to assist with oral care, only 65% would assist patients to do so; “Uncooperative patient” was the major barrier reported.DiscussionNurses have high general awareness of importance of oral health, but had incomplete knowledge. Compared to previous studies, most (90.5%) did not find performing oral care unpleasant but other barriers might have hindered actual oral care practice.ConclusionNurses were motivated to assist in oral care of children with cancer but sometimes felt ill-equipped. Updated national and institution guidelines, didactic and hands-on training, and implementation of practical support could be considered.

Design, Implementation, and Evaluation of Educational Program in Oral Health for Midwives and Other Antenatal Care Providers in Iran.

Maintaining oral health during pregnancy has been considered an essential public health issue worldwide. One of the various preventive strategies is to train antenatal care providers to guide pregnant women. This study aimed to design, implement, and evaluate an educational program's effect on the oral health-related knowledge, attitudes, and practice of antenatal care providers in Iran. All of the antenatal care providers working at Isfahan health centers were invited for this study in April 2019. A total of 340 volunteers (120 midwives and 220 others) finally participated in this interventional study with a pre-test-post-test design. A questionnaire was developed to assess the participants' knowledge, attitudes, and practice before and after the intervention. A lecture-based educational session containing similar issues asked in the questionnaire was held for all the participants. The participant's total knowledge scores before and after the intervention, and their attitudes and practice were evaluated and compared through paired t-test. The participants' mean total knowledge scores before and after the intervention were 42.87 and 52.25, respectively. The paired t-test revealed a statistically significant difference between pre- and post-intervention scores (p < 0.001). The frequency of participants' answers to attitude and practice questions was also determined. Improving oral health-related knowledge of antenatal care providers can be achieved through a single educational session designed by accurately assessing their needs. The participants' attitudes revealed barriers to seeking dental care by pregnant women; however, the participants' oral health-related practice was acceptable.