RESUMO
Background: Tooth decay and gingivitis are common diseases in the world in general and in Vietnam in particular. They occur so early, even shortly after teething. The treatment cost for these diseases is so expensive. Objective: To evaluate the knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) of dental health care of school children aged 12 years old in Dong Da and Thanh Tri districts of Hanoi, 2005. Subjects and method: An epidemiological, cross-sectional, analytical study was conducted in 227 school children aged 12 years old in Dong Da and Thanh Tri districts of Hanoi, from November/2005 to May/2006. Results: Among 227 participants: men were more than female (115 versus 112). 179 participants (78.9%) knew that teeth brushing after main meals was the best method of dental care. 199 (87.7%) knew unclean teeth causing dental caries. 224 (98.7%) knew that eating sweet foods without teeth brushing could lead to tooth decay. 74.8% participants agreed to brush teeth after main meals daily. 88.1% agreed to see the dentist regularly. However, only 49.79% participants brushed their teeth after main meals; 31.3% brushed their teeth after eating or drinking sweet foods. 89% did not gargle their mouth with flour water in school. Conclusion: Behavior and knowledge of dental care of school children were good, but not for practice.