ORAL HEALTH EVALUATION OF CHILDREN FROM PUBLIC SCHOOLS IN A CITY OF NORTHEASTERN BRAZIL

Authors

  • Glaucenira de Barros BRUNO
  • Francisco Antonio Vieira dos SANTOS
  • Glauce Socorro de Barros VIANA

Abstract

Objective: This study evaluated 178 children from Juazeiro do Norte, Brazil, for the presence of Streptococcus mutans (SM). Methods: The DentalCult II kit was used, and the SM counting expressed as colony forming units per 1 mL of saliva (CFU/mL). In order to analyze the teeth brushing frequency, use of dental floss, fluoride, dentist appointments and family dental history, a questionnaire was applied to the children’s parents. Results: The data showed that 47% presented poor oral health conditions; 64% showed 107 CFU/mL saliva of S. mutans, and the majority (81%) were at high risk for dental caries. According to the mothers, 50% visited the dentist, 25% received treatment, 58% received some information on oral hygiene, and 98% brushed their teeth at least once a day. Dental floss was used by 10%, and 46% utilized fluoride. The great majority (90%) had a family history of caries. Conclusion: The importance of this study lies in the knowledge of factors related to the onset and etiology of caries in childhood. Moreover, it could be used by governmental programs as a guide for oral health planning oriented to the needs of that population. DESCRIPTORS Public Health. Oral Health. Caries. Streptococcus Mutans. Risk Factors.

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Published

2015-07-01

How to Cite

BRUNO, G. de B., SANTOS, F. A. V. dos, & VIANA, G. S. de B. (2015). ORAL HEALTH EVALUATION OF CHILDREN FROM PUBLIC SCHOOLS IN A CITY OF NORTHEASTERN BRAZIL. Revista Brasileira De Ciências Da Saúde, 18(3), 225–234. Retrieved from https://periodicos.ufpb.br/index.php/rbcs/article/view/15987

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Research