Abed A Hamasha1, Steven M Levy, John J Warren. 1. Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan. hamasha@just.edu.jo
Abstract
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to report patterns of dental visits and fluoride applications longitudinally during ages 7 to 9. METHODS: A cohort recruited at birth was followed in the Iowa Fluoride Study, with pretested questionnaires-sent to participants at 3- to 6-month intervals--concerning children having a dental (or dental hygiene) appointment or a fluoride application during the period. RESULTS: The percentages with dental visits were stable during these years (92%-93%), however, the percentages reporting fluoride applications increased from 68% (seventh year) to 74% (ninth year). Among children with complete data for 72 to 108 months of age, 99% visited the dentist and 84% received fluoride applications. Dental visits were significantly more frequent with a higher socioeconomic status, and fluoride applications were significantly more frequent in children with primary dentition caries experience. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of visits and fluoride applications during these years are stable, with most children having at least 1 visit per year.
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to report patterns of dental visits and fluoride applications longitudinally during ages 7 to 9. METHODS: A cohort recruited at birth was followed in the Iowa Fluoride Study, with pretested questionnaires-sent to participants at 3- to 6-month intervals--concerning children having a dental (or dental hygiene) appointment or a fluoride application during the period. RESULTS: The percentages with dental visits were stable during these years (92%-93%), however, the percentages reporting fluoride applications increased from 68% (seventh year) to 74% (ninth year). Among children with complete data for 72 to 108 months of age, 99% visited the dentist and 84% received fluoride applications. Dental visits were significantly more frequent with a higher socioeconomic status, and fluoride applications were significantly more frequent in children with primary dentition caries experience. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of visits and fluoride applications during these years are stable, with most children having at least 1 visit per year.