Impact of Community-Based Oral Health Education Programs on Dental Caries Prevalence in School-Aged Children.

INTRODUCTION

Dental caries remains a major public health concern among school-aged children. Community-based oral health education programs have been implemented to reduce the prevalence of caries by promoting oral hygiene and preventive care.

METHODS

A prospective research was conducted on 200 school-aged children to evaluate the impact of a six-month community-based oral health education program. The children were divided into two groups: the research group (received oral health education) and the control group (received no intervention). Data were collected on dental caries prevalence, oral hygiene practices, and caries risk factors at baseline and after six months. Statistical analysis was conducted to compare caries prevalence before and after the intervention.

RESULTS

The prevalence of dental caries in the research group significantly decreased after the six-month program, with a reduction of 25% compared to the control group, where there was a minimal reduction.

CONCLUSION

Community-based oral health education programs are effective in reducing dental caries prevalence in school-aged children by promoting preventive practices and oral hygiene awareness.