[Aspects of prevention of bucco-dento-maxillary affections in children from the urban environment].

Abstract

In the first part of the paper a detailed presentation is made of the methods for the prevention of dental decay, of gingivitis and of dento-maxillary anomalies. Data from the published literature, as well as the authors experience are the base for this part. In the second part a study is presented, carried out in 1,000 children from Bucharest, of which 250 were controls. The children were classified according to three categories of age and sex. The age groups were: 3-5 years, 7-9 years, and 12-14 years. In the experimental group the buccal cavity was maintained in a hygienic condition by brushing with fluorinated paste, dental decay was treated and topic applications were carried out with aminofluorine gels. Health education was also applied, with various methods. The children were followed clinically for a period of three years, and the results of the examination were recorded on standard observation files. The results showed a significant decrease in the frequency of dental decay in the experimental group as compared with the controls. Gingivitis decreased by 18-20% in the experimental group, but a less significant decrease was noted in the frequency of dento-maxillary anomalies. It is concluded that the application of a minimal program of hygienic measures with prevention-prophylactic aims may result in the significant reduction of bucco-dento-maxillary affections. However, it should be stressed that these programs should be carried out continuously and very consciously both by the physician and the child.