Implications of changes in caries prevalence on research
König, K.G.
International Dental Journal 44(4 Suppl 1: 451-456
1994
ISSN/ISBN: 0020-6539 PMID: 7814114 Document Number: 428902
The marked decline of caries prevalence in some populations should be an incentive for research to reduce caries prevalence as well in (sub)populations which have not benefited equally. Epidemiological studies, including data on the increasing numbers of elderly subjects, will remain important in the future; epidemiologists require better methods of diagnosing small lesions and of identifying risk groups. Sophisticated computer simulation models for the processing of epidemiological data might result in more accurate predictions and may enable health policy planners to invest scarce funds in the most efficient manner. These efforts should be focused on improving school health education and prevention strategies in general. The main difference between (sub)populations with low caries prevalence and high caries prevalence seems to be the lack of regular toothbrushing with a fluoride toothpaste by members of the high prevalence subpopulation. Since, in many countries, toothbrushing has been accepted by 80 per cent of the population, it should be possible to get this habit adopted by the minorities still at high risk. Future research with the highest priority should be behavioural studies into (dental) health education with personal hygiene as the main goal. Socio-psychologists should conduct research into the possibilities of motivating people to practice oral hygiene and hygiene-minded behaviour in general. This would not only improve oral health, but at the same time would tackle what still is the greatest threat to mankind: infectious diseases.