Effects of Oral Health Training on Dental Plaque Index

Abstract

Introduction : Oral malodor can be used as a motivational tool to improve oral health-related behaviors. The present study aimed to compare oral health training on the dental plaque index. Methods: In the current study, 161 ( 76 females, 85 male) grade-one high school students from public schools of Yazd were divided into three groups : 1 – Oral health training + oral malodor training ( halitosis group), 2– oral health training + training of dental caries and periodontal diseases ( traditional groups), 3- oral health training (control group ). Two weeks and two months after the intervention, plaque index was measured. Positive and negative changes were recorded over time, and then, the study data were analyzed using Chi-square (bonferroni adjustment), McNemar, Kruskal-Wallis  and Paired t-Test. Results: The study results revealed no significant differences between the  halitosis group and the traditional group, though both had a significant difference with the control group. Positive changes in halitosis group especially within girls were held to be more durable compared to the other groups. Conclusion: Oral health training accompanging training of oral malodor, tooth decay and periodontal disease seems to be more effective on health promotion of senior high school students in Yazd. Furthermore, oral malodor training produces more durable effects. As a result, this training style is recommended in regard with eductional programs of schools.

Keywords

• Halitosis
• Oral health training
• Plaque index