The Impact of Oral Hygiene Educational Programs on the Prevention of Gingivitis in Pediatric Patients


Author(s):

Andreea Vlasiu1 , Ana- Petra Lazăr2*, Timea Dako3, Luminița Lazăr4

Affiliation:

1 George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology, Târgu Mureș, Romania
2 Department of Oral Rehabilitation and Occlusology, George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology, Târgu Mureș, Romania
3 Department of Odontology and Oral Pathology, George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology, Târgu Mureș, Romania
4 Department of Periodontology, George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology, Târgu Mureș, Romania

DOI:

ABSTRACT
Introduction: Gingivitis is the most common and simplest form of periodontal disease, affecting both adults and children, and is characterized by inflammation of the gingival tissue. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of implementing structured oral health education programs in schools and kindergartens, with a focus on promoting oral and periodontal health from early childhood. Materials and Methods: Two questionnaires on oral hygiene were administered before and after educational programs to children aged 6–12 years in Târgu Mureș. Results: Most children reported using an electric toothbrush (58.7%), while 25% used a manual toothbrush and 16.3% alternated between both. Improvement in symptomatology was associated with better hygiene habits (p < 0.0001). Toothbrushing frequency was significantly associated with the source of oral health information (p < 0.0001), confirming the effectiveness of the educational intervention. Conclusions: Oral hygiene education programs proved effective in improving children’s oral care behavior and had a significant positive impact on reducing the risk of gingivitis