Evaluation of a preventive-educative program development between Uniararas and Usina São João of Araras, SP

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate a preventive - educative program, after 3 and 6 months, directed at children and adolescents included in the Usina do Saber Project, developed by Uniararas (Centro Universitário Hermínio Ometto). The random sample consisted of 120 individuals aged 7 to 17 years enrolled in state schools in Araras, SP, Brazil. A calibrated examiner performed the clinical examination outdoors, under natural light, using timber of match and spatula and without air-drying. Plaque and gingival index were measured in the examinations. In the same time, the volunteers received a supervised toothbrushing, topical application of fluoride according to the caries risk and educative measures in each 3 months. The results showed no statistically significant difference in the plaque and gingival index between the examinations. A statistical difference was observed between the 3rd and 6th months for the gingival index. It may be concluded that the proposed program was efficient in reducing gingival bleeding; however, it’s still necessary to improve and to prolong the proposal strategy in order to further the effective improvement in the promotion of oral health.