Senior dental students from the Hebrew University-Hadassah School of Dental Medicine took part in planning and implementing a community intervention program at one small (n=35) Education Institution for Blind Children in Jerusalem, under the supervision and guidance of the Department of Community Dentistry." Objectives:" 1) to expose the students to special needs populations outside the School settings; 2) to practice basic principles of community intervention; 3) to plan and implement primary health care for disabled children, and 4) to emphasize the social commitment of the School to the community. "Methods:" Data collection included clinical examination (dental and periodontal status) and interview (oral hygiene habits and children's expectations from the program). "Results:" 83% of the institution children at the age of 8 to 17 years were examined and interviewed. 31% were caries- free (DMFT=0), and 38% needed dental decay treatment. The Significant Caries Index (SiC) was 8.5 (D=2.1). All children demonstrated mild to moderate gingivitis. The children expressed deep interest for dental and oral health knowledge. In accordance with findings, students implemented a community intervention program emphasizing self-care oral hygiene practice and knowledge transmission. "Conclusion:" Program evaluation questionnaire findings and the very fruitful atmosphere of all parties emphasize the importance of continuous evaluation of this mode of intervention.

Back to the Scientific Program Program
Back to the Joint Meeting of the Continental European, Israeli, and Scandinavian (NOF) Divisions of the IADR (August 25 -- 28, 2004)

Top Level Search