Suitability of nurses and school-teachers as oral health educators in Gazankulu--a pilot study.

This study investigated the suitability of nurses and teachers as potential oral health educators. The assessment was based on a concept of suitability that embraced biological and psycho-social variables. These included oral health status, knowledge, attitudes and reported oral health behaviour. The study population comprised 48 nurses and 43 school-teachers. DMFT of nurses was 4, 6 and teachers 2,5. More than 80 percent of both groups required some form of periodontal treatment. An adequate but basic knowledge of the causes and prevention of oral disease was demonstrated. More that 50 percent of both groups did not visit a dentist annually. Attitudes reflected the belief that teeth are expendable and easily replaceable. In terms of the theoretical model these nurses and teachers do not meet all the criteria that define "suitable" oral health educators. The findings of the present study have provided a profile which has highlighted certain deficiencies in knowledge, attitudes and behaviour. Further research using this model requires the inclusion of motivational and interest variables.