[Oral health and hygiene status in galician schoolchildren].

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to determine the oral health and hygiene status in 12 year-old Galician schoolchildren.

METHOD: A cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of 1267 schoolchildren. The fieldwork was carried out in the 2010-2011 academic year. Information regarding socio-demographic status, dietary habits, and oral hygiene practices was obtained through a structured self-report questionnaire given to the children at school. Dental examination to evaluate plaque and caries was carried out according to World Health Organization criteria. The prevalence and mean with 95% confidence intervals were calculated and logistic regression models were ajusted.

RESULTS

Out of a total of 1045 pupils who participated in the study, 35% showed incorrect removal of dental plaque, and the prevalence of caries was 39.3%. Those who belonged to a lower socioeconomic group showed a higher prevalence of caries. Those who brushed their teeth daily had better oral hygiene.

CONCLUSIONS

Educational programmes need to be designed and implemented in order to improve dental health and hygiene.