ABSTRACT
This study aimed to evaluate the long-term impact of children's dental care programs on children and adolescents to reduce oral health inequalities. It measured and assessed the improvement effects of children's dental care programs on the oral health of children and adolescents as part of the efforts to decrease oral health disparities in this age group. It included 406 individuals who participated in student and children's dental care program between 2013 and 2019 at screening facilities in Gwangjin-gu, Seoul. A frequency analysis was conducted for demographic characteristics, and a binary logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors influencing the prevalence of dental caries as the dependent variable. The data were analyzed using PASW Statistics with the statistical significance level set at α = 0.05. Regarding oral health status based on the frequency of participation in children's dental care program for children and adolescents, participants with seven or more sessions had lower prevalence rates of dental caries, malocclusion, and periodontal disease than those with only one session. Second, when comparing oral health status in children's dental care program between primary and adolescent age groups, individuals under continuous oral health care showed a decrease in permanent teeth affected by dental caries, dental caries prevalence, and malocclusion prevalence (excluding primary school age). Third, a binary logistic regression analysis revealed significant influences (p < 0.05) of the developmental stage and frequency of program participation on dental caries prevalence. Children's dental care programs are essential for alleviating oral health inequalities among children and adolescents and preventing oral diseases. Furthermore, the developmental stage of children and the frequency of program participation are crucial factors in preventing oral conditions, such as dental caries.
ABSTRACT
We aimed to determine whether adhesive components could increase the release time of effective fluoride concentration from an experimental fluoride varnish applied to bovine teeth. An experimental fluoride varnish containing 5% sodium fluoride (EX1) was prepared and combined with 35% hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) (EX2), 5% glutaraldehyde (EX3), or 35% HEMA/5% glutaraldehyde mixture (EX4). Two commercially available fluoride varnishes were used for comparison. Each group was applied to bovine incisors, and the fluoride release and pH were monitored for 30 days. Cell viability analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive spectroscopy were performed. EX4 released the highest and most effective concentration of fluoride for the longest period and reached neutral pH at the earliest; the release was maintained for up to 30 days without cytotoxicity. In conclusion, EX4 is considered to be the most effective varnish to prevent dental caries.
