Childrens dental health in 8 primary schools in South County Meath (1988)

Abstract

A study of caries prevalence in a high selenium area in County Meath was carried out in 1988. A secondary aim of this study was to gather information that might be useful in planning of dental services in the county. For the purpose of this latter aim, 425 children in junior infants, 2nd and 6th standards were examined. The study consisted of clinical examinations, questionnaires and analyses of water samples for fluoride content. Caries prevalence in County Meath was very low, a finding consistent with the results of previous national surveys. Most of the caries in the permanent teeth was in the pit and fissure surfaces. Periodontal treatment needs were minor and confined to oral hygiene instruction and simple scaling. A preventive programme of sealants and dental health education conducted by auxiliary personnel would be beneficial in reducing further the dental disease levels in primary school children.