Preventive dentistry in Texas, USA.

This paper presents the results of a 1985 survey of 1000 Texas dentists regarding three major types of preventive measures--educational services, preventive procedures, and diagnostic services. The results show that among several given educational services, respondents tended most to instruct on correct brushing or flossing and tended least to counsel on diet. Among preventive procedures, most dentists removed plaque or calculus. A very small portion applied occlusal sealants on patients under the age of 15. As for diagnostic services, most performed oral cancer screening exams. Most performed dental X-rays, but many did not use leaded protection on their patients while taking X-rays. A large number did not check their patients' blood pressure. Income, attendance of continuing education programs, and number of dental hygienists were strong, positive predictors of provision of all three types of preventive measures. Dentists who practiced in more populous areas, or had practiced for fewer years, more likely provided patients with educational services and preventive procedures. Dentists delivered more preventive procedures if they attended more professional dental meetings. Dentists who worked more hours were more likely to provide educational services and preventive procedures. Patient load correlated negatively with dentists' delivery of preventive procedures.