To cite this article: Int J Dent Hygiene DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-5037.2011.00542.x Rosedale MT, Strauss SM. Diabetes screening at the periodontal visit: patient and provider experiences with two screening approaches.
Abstract: Objectives: This study examined patient and dental provider experiences during the periodontal visit of diabetes screening approaches involving the collection of gingival crevicular blood (GCB) and finger stick blood (FSB) for haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) testing.
Methods: At a large, urban, US periodontics and implant clinic, FSB samples from 120 patients and GCB samples from 102 of these patients were collected on special blood collection cards and sent to a laboratory for HbA1c testing, with test results sent to the patients from the laboratory. Quantitative and qualitative data from patients and qualitative data from providers were collected and analysed.
Results: Quantitative and qualitative data support the feasibility and acceptability of the approaches described. Themes that arose from the interviews with providers and patients include ‘a good chance to check’, ‘patient choice’, ‘FSB versus GCB testing’ and ‘a new way of interacting and viewing the dental visit’.
Conclusion: Periodontal patients and dental providers believe that the dental visit is an opportune site for diabetes screening and generally prefer GCB to FSB collection. HbA1c testing is well tolerated, convenient and acceptable to patients, and GCB testing reduces time and liability obstacles for dental providers to conduct diabetes screening.
To cite this article: Int J Dent Hygiene DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-5037.2011.00539.x Johannsen A, Bolander-Laksov K, Bjurshammar N, Nordgren B, Fridén C, Hagströmer M. Enhancing meaningful learning and self-efficacy through collaboration between dental hygienist and physiotherapist students – a scholarship project.
Abstract: Introduction: Within the field of Dental Hygiene (DH) and Physiotherapy (PT), students are taught to use an evidence-based approach. Educators need to consider the nature of evidence-based practice from the perspective of content knowledge and learning strategies. Such effort to seek best available evidence and to apply a systematic and scholarly approach to teaching and learning is called scholarship of teaching and learning.
Objectives: To evaluate the application of the scholarship model including an evidence-based approach to enhance meaningful learning and self-efficacy among DH and PT students.
Methods: Based on the research on student learning, three central theories were identified (constructivism, meaningful learning and self-efficacy). These were applied in our context to support learner engagement and the application of prior knowledge in a new situation. The DH students performed an oral health examination on the PT students, and the PT students performed an individual health test on the DH students; both groups used motivational interviewing. Documentation of student’s learning experience was carried out through seminars and questionnaires.
Results: The students were overall satisfied with the learning experience. Most appreciated are that it reflected a ‘real’ professional situation and that it also reinforced important learning from their seminars.
Conclusion: The scholarship model made the teachers aware of the importance of evidence-based teaching. Furthermore, the indicators for meaningful learning and increased self-efficacy were high, and the students became more engaged by practising in a real situation, more aware of other health professions and reflected about tacit knowledge.
To cite this article: Int J Dent Hygiene DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-5037.2011.00540.x GV Usha, HM Thippeswamy, L Nagesh. Comparative assessment of validity and reliability of the Oral Impacts on Daily Performance (OIDP) frequency scale: a cross-sectional survey among adolescents in Davanagere city, Karnataka, India.
Abstract: Aim: To evaluate reliability and validity of an abbreviated version of the Oral Impact on Daily Performance (OIDP) questionnaire and to analyse the interrelationship between OIDP scores, socio-demographic characteristics and oral health status among high school children in Davanagere city, Karnataka, India.
Materials and methods: This cross-sectional survey was conducted with 900 school children aged between 12 and 15. The subjects were randomly selected from six high schools. Selected subjects completed a survey instrument predesigned to measure subjective oral health indicators including the eight-item OIDP frequency scores. The study participants were clinically examined for dental caries, and they completed a self-administered questionnaire about demographic information and oral behaviours.
Results: 44% of the students reported at least one oral impact in the previous 6 months. The reliability of the instrument was measured in terms of Cronbach’s alpha for the OIDP frequency. It was found to be 0.81. Eating was the most common performance affected (33%) followed by cleaning teeth (22%) and speaking (20%). The severity of impacts was low for relaxing and carrying out works.
Conclusion: The OIDP frequency score has acceptable psychometric properties in the context of an oral health survey among high school children of Davanagere city, Karnataka, India.
To cite this article: Int J Dent Hygiene DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-5037.2011.00538.x Yilmaz HG, Bayindir H. Clinical evaluation of chlorhexidine and essential oils for adjunctive effects in ultrasonic instrumentation of furcation involvements: a randomized controlled clinical trial.
Abstract: Background: The aim of this clinical study was to evaluate and compare the clinical efficacy of subgingival ultrasonic mechanical instrumentation (UMI) irrigated with essential oils (EOs) and chlorhexidine (CHX) at the furcation involvements (FI).
Methods: Forty-five patients (244 FI) who presented with Class II FI were recruited to the study. Patients were randomly assigned to CHX (UMI irrigated with 0.2% CHX), EO (UMI irrigated with EOs) or control (UMI irrigated with distilled water) groups. All treatments were performed in one session. For all groups, plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), position of gingival margin (PGM), pocket depth (PD), bleeding on probing (BOP), clinical attachment level (CAL) and horizontal attachment level (HAL) scores were recorded at baseline and 1 and 3 months after therapy.
Results: In all groups, there were significant reductions in PI, GI, PD and BOP, increase in PGM scores and gain in CAL and HAL scores, at 1 and 3 months compared to baseline. Except in BOP scores, there were no significance differences among the groups at any time point. At 1 and 3 months, there were significant reductions in the BOP scores of the EO group compared with the CHX and control groups.
Conclusion: Within the limits of this study, the use of EOs as a cooling liquid of UMI may promote slight adjunctive effects at FI compared to CHX and water.
To cite this article: Int J Dent Hygiene DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-5037.2011.00537.x Azodo CC, Ezeja EB, Omoaregba JO, James BO. Oral health of psychiatric patients: the nurse’s perspective.
Abstract: Objective: To assess nurses’ perspectives on character, prevalence and cause of oral diseases among psychiatric patients and also their approach and suggestions in relation to the care of oral problems. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire-based cross-sectional survey of all cadres of nurses (n = 136) at the Federal Psychiatric Hospital, Benin City, Nigeria, was conducted between December 2010 and January 2011. Results: Two-thirds (67.6%) of the respondents reported that psychiatric in-patients in comparison with the general population have a higher occurrence of oral and dental problems. Commonly cited reasons for the poor oral health of patients included as follows: sedation for long periods, lack of care by family, psychopathological symptoms, poor access to dentists and lack of oral hygiene advice. The common oral health complaints received by the respondents included toothache, pain from the gums and inability to open the mouth. Majority (91.4%) of respondents claimed to be presently involved with oral care of psychiatric in-patients but oral care delivery is however bedevilled with lot of barriers like uncooperativeness of patients and lack of oral care materials. Conclusion: Oral complaints received are frequent and numerate with limited palliative action rendered. Attaching dentists to psychiatric hospitals and regular training of psychiatric nurses on oral care delivery are recommended to comprehensively cater for the oral health problems of psychiatric in-patients.
To cite this article: Int J Dent Hygiene DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-5037.2011.00536.x Hayes MJ, Taylor JA, Smith DR. Predictors of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among dental hygienists.
Abstract: Objectives: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) have been recognized as a considerable problem for the dental hygiene profession, with the majority of professionals reporting musculoskeletal pain. The aim of this study was to investigate which risk factors may help predict MSD among Australian dental hygienists. Methods: A modified version of the Standardised Nordic questionnaire was distributed to registered hygienists throughout Australia. Results: Logistic regression analysis revealed a variety of work-related and psychosocial factors that correlate with reported MSD, including scaling tasks, type of practice and work interference in home life. Statistical predictors for non-reporting of MSD included wearing loupes, ergonomics education and wage satisfaction. Concerning is the impact on the profession, with an association between MSD and hygienists considering reducing working hours or even alternate careers. Conclusions: In general, it appears as though the causes of MSD among dental hygienists may be multifactorial, as may be the solutions to this problem. Further research is required to objectively examine whether controllable variables can be implemented as preventive strategies or interventions for MSD.
To cite this article: Int J Dent Hygiene DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-5037.2011.00534.x Honne T, Pentapati K, Kumar N, Acharya S. Relationship between obesity/overweight status, sugar consumption and dental caries among adolescents in South India.
Objective: To evaluate the relationship between obesity/overweight status, sugar consumption and dental caries among adolescents in Udupi District, India. Methods: Study population consisted of 463 school children aged between 13 and 15 years. Information on age, sex, type of school attending and frequency of sugar consumption per day was recorded by a structured self-administered questionnaire. Body mass index (BMI) (height in metres and weight in kilograms) and caries measurements (DMFT) were taken by a trained recorder according to standard criteria. Results: Majority of the children were having low normal weight, with 18.6% in overweight and 3.5% in obese groups. There was a significant difference in the frequency of sugar consumption between the BMI groups. Obese group of children had more caries than the overweight and low-normal-weight children. Correlation analysis showed significant positive relation with BMI, decayed teeth and DMFT. Regression analysis showed that caries experience had a significant association with male sex (OR = 2.09, CI = 1.01–4.33), overweight/obese (OR = 3.68, CI = 1.79–7.56) and frequency of sugar consumption more than once per day (OR = 3.13, CI = 1.25–7.85). Conclusion: There was a significant association between overweight/obesity and caries experience among school children of Udupi District. Obesity and dental caries have common risk determinants and require a comprehensive multidisciplinary approach to paediatric patients by both medical and dental healthcare professionals.
To cite this article: Int J Dent Hygiene DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-5037.2011.00532.x Burgess J, Lee P. XyliMelts time-release adhering discs for night-time oral dryness.
Dry mouth can be caused by medication, CPAP use, radiation treatment and a variety of connective tissue diseases, with the prevalence increasing with age. In most individuals, daytime dryness is easily managed. However, except for a new product tested in this study, there is no product lasting longer than an hour that can be used at night to reduce the perception of oral dryness while sleeping. The purpose of this study was to assess whether a self-adhering, slowly dissolving disc that time-releases 500 mg of xylitol, cellulose gum (lubricant and humectant) and mild mint flavour (XyliMelts for Dry Mouth, OraHealth Corp.) used during sleep would reduce perceived morning oral dryness and discomfort. Fifteen subjects self-identified as having morning oral dryness were evaluated first without treatment and again with the use of XyliMelts for Dry Mouth. Measures of initial morning discomfort and perceived wetness demonstrated significant improvement. Perceived oral wetness scores increased more than threefold with the use of XyliMelts for Dry Mouth while sleeping. These findings suggest that XyliMelts for Dry Mouth may be an effective strategy for managing oral dryness that occurs at night.
To cite this article: Int J Dent Hygiene DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-5037.2011.00531.x Hashim R. Self-reported oral health, oral hygiene habits and dental service utilization among pregnant women in United Arab Emirates. © 2011 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2011 Blackwell Munksgaard
Aim: The aim of this study was to describe self-reported oral health, oral hygiene habits and frequency of visits to a dentist among pregnant women visiting maternity hospitals in the United Arab Emirates. Material and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted, with anonymous structured questionnaires distributed to 800 pregnant women who were chosen at random from attendants of three maternity and child health centres from various geographical areas of UAE, during January–March 2010. Results: The response rate was 93.7% (n = 750). Less than quarter of the participated pregnant women were in their first trimester. Almost a quarter (23.5%) of the women believed that they had periodontal problem currently, while 46.3% reported having carious teeth. More than 44% reported having dental pain, and about 40% women felt that her oral health was poor. About 60% reported having heard about the possible connection between pregnancy and the oral health. About 94% of the women were brushing their teeth at least once a day. More than half of the women (58.3%) visited the dentist during their most recent pregnancy, mostly for dental pain. Conclusions: A large proportion of the pregnant women in this study had oral health problems; however, more than 40% of those women had not visited a dentist during their pregnancy, and the majority of those utilized dental services when they had dental pain only. To provide better oral health care, more knowledge needs to be made available to the pregnant women and the medical community.
To cite this article: Int J Dent Hygiene DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-5037.2011.00520.x Clovis JB, Brillant MGS, Matthews DC, Cobban SJ, Romanow PR, Filiaggi MJ, McNally ME. Using interviews to construct and disseminate knowledge of oral health policy.
Objectives: Policymakers worldwide are challenged by the problem of oral health inequities. The goal of an interprovincial partnership in Canada was to guide policy aimed at improving the oral health of vulnerable populations. Insights regarding barriers and enablers to developing such policy in one province (Newfoundland & Labrador, Canada) were required to enhance collaboration between decision makers and researchers and to contribute to the evidence informing policy development. Methods: Snowball technique identified fourteen key informants. Semistructured audio-recorded interviews were conducted in person or by telephone. Two researchers independently conducted the analyses of the transcribed interviews, one using NVivo software and the second, manual coding. Triangulation of the analyses confirmed the findings. Results: Agreement between the two approaches showed that most key informants believed that oral health is an important policy issue; however, most felt it was not a high priority among the general public and most were unable to articulate the policy process. Barriers to oral health becoming a governmental priority were related to resource allocation and to poor communication among some groups including dentists and dental hygienists. Current government programmes and initiatives were praised but considered weak in health promotion strategies. Recommendations for enhancing oral health priority varied. Conclusions: Attention to the methodological considerations of qualitative research enhanced the credibility of the method and confidence in the findings. Leveraging of existing programmes and improving communication were recommended to contribute to raising the priority of oral health within the government, thereby increasing their commitment to address oral health care, particularly for vulnerable populations.
To cite this article: Int J Dent Hygiene DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-5037.2010.00527.x Arduino PG, Lopetuso E, Carcieri P, Giacometti S, Carbone M, Tanteri C, Broccoletti R. Professional oral hygiene treatment and detailed oral hygiene instructions in patients affected by mucous membrane pemphigoid with specific gingival localization: a pilot study in 12 patients.
Abstract: Objectives: The aim of this prospective case series was to assess the clinical efficiency of an oral hygiene protocol in patients affected by mucous membrane pemphigoid (MMP) with specific gingival localization, before starting any medical treatment. Methods: Patients received oral hygiene instruction followed by non-surgical periodontal therapy including oral hygiene instructions in a 3-week cohort study. Clinical outcome variables were recorded at baseline and 5 weeks after intervention and included, as periodontal parameters, full mouth plaque (FMPS) and bleeding (FMBS) scores and patient-related outcomes (visual analogue score of pain). Results: A total of 12 patients were recruited. The mean age at presentation was 59.5 ± 14.52 years. Five weeks after finishing the oral hygiene and periodontal therapy protocol, a statistical significant reduction was observed for FMPS (P = 0.001), FMBS (P = 0.022) and reported pain (P = 0.0028). Conclusions: Professional oral hygiene procedures and non-surgical periodontal therapy are connected with improvement of gingival status and decrease in gingival-related pain, in female patients affected by MMP with specific gingival localization.
To cite this article: Int J Dent Hygiene, DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-5037.2010.00526.x Dickinson C, Beatty CF, Marshall D. A pilot study: are dental hygienists in Texas ready for the elderly population explosion?
Purpose: At the beginning of the 20th century, people 65 and older comprised 4.1% of the population. By the year 2030, it is estimated that people 65 and older, the ‘Baby Boomer’ generation, will comprise more than 20% of the population. This will have a profound effect on the practice of dentistry and on society as a whole. The purpose of this study was to determine whether dental hygienists in Texas felt prepared and willing to treat the elderly in alternative practice settings such as nursing homes.
Methods: After institutional review board approval, a questionnaire was mailed to 500 hygienists. A 5% systematic sample of dental hygiene graduates was taken from four dental hygiene schools in Texas, United States of America (USA). Of these, 175 were returned for a 35% response rate. Questions asked were degree held, how prepared the participants felt to treat the special needs of the elderly, if participants were willing to work in alternative practice settings such as a nursing home and if they felt additional education was needed. Frequency distributions, correlations and chi square were used to analyse the data.
Results: Results revealed 86.5% of the respondents felt prepared to somewhat prepared to treat the special needs of the elderly based on education; equally, 86.5% felt more education was needed to better prepare them to treat the elderly. Over half of the respondents would not be willing to work in alternative practice settings such as nursing homes.
Conclusion: The average respondents do not feel fully prepared to treat the elderly with special needs, and they think more education is needed to better prepare them to treat this important target population.
To cite this article Int J Dent Hygiene DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-5037.2011.00524.x Salas ML, McClellan AC, MacNeill SR, Satheesh KM, Cobb CM. Interproximal cervical lesions caused by incorrect flossing technique.
Abstract: This case report describes an interproximal cervical lesion caused by the incorrect use of dental floss. A 58-year-old man who was asymptomatic, presented with unusual notch-like cervical lesions. After clinical and radiographical examinations, it was concluded that the aetiology of these lesions was an incorrect flossing technique. The treatment plan included extraction of maxillary 3rd molars and re-education of the patient in oral hygiene technique. Conclusion: These lesions are irreversible and often go undiagnosed; therefore, it is important for the clinician to be familiar with the clinical presentation and aetiology.
To cite this article: Int J Dent Hygiene DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-5037.2011.00523.x Rioboo M, García V, Serrano J, O’Connor A, Herrera D, Sanz M. Clinical and microbiological efficacy of an antimicrobial mouth rinse containing 0.05% cetylpyridinium chloride in patients with gingivitis.
Abstract: Objectives: the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of the use of a mouth rinse and dentifrice with cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) in patients with gingivitis.
Methods: the study was designed as a 1-month, double-blind, parallel, randomized clinical trial comparing a negative control regimen (minus active ingredients dentifrice and mouth rinse) with the test products (dentifrice and mouth rinse with 0.05% CPC) in terms of plaque and gingival indexes (PI, GI), patient-based and microbiological outcome variables. The comparisons in relation to the main outcome variables (PI and GI) were made by means of the t-test, either unpaired or paired for the intergroup and intragroup comparisons, respectively.
Results: no differences were detected at baseline. Both groups showed statistically significant decreases in GI (0.17–0.19), without intergroup differences. The PI demonstrated a significant decrease of −0.12 in the test group and minor changes in the negative control group (increase of +0.01). Differences between groups showed a tendency towards statistical significance. A limited impact was observed for microbiological variables in both groups.
Conclusion: the results of this study show limited benefits of the evaluated formulations as adjuncts to unsupervised oral hygiene in reducing plaque accumulation, and no effect on gingivitis.
To cite this article Int J Dent Hygiene DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-5037.2011.00525.x Philip P, Rogers C, Kruger E, Tennant M. Caries experience of institutionalized elderly and its association with dementia and functional status.
Abstract: Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the caries experience of the elderly residing in residential aged care facilities in Perth, Western Australia, and its association with dementia and functional status.
Methods: Oral examinations were conducted in a sample of institutionalized aged persons. This study was carried out over a period of 7 years, between 2002 and 2008.
Results: A total of 205 residents were examined. The mean decayed, missing and filled teeth index score was 25.9 for all residents. Residents with dementia did not have significantly different levels of caries experience than those without. The mean number of active caries and retained decayed roots, however, was higher among residents with dementia. There was a significant difference in the mean number of active decay and carious retained roots among residents based on their Activities of Daily Living Oral Health score and their status of assistance received with brushing.
Conclusion: Caries experience among the institutionalized elderly is associated with disability, and oral care is lacking among the institutionalized elderly in this study. Appropriate preventive measures (as well as interventional activities) should be undertaken to control oral disease among residential aged care residents.
To cite this article:Int J Dent Hygiene DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-5037.2011.00522.x Rupesh S, Winnier JJ, Nayak UA, Rao AP, Reddy V, Peter J. The comparative evaluation of the effects of tongue cleaning on salivary levels of mutans streptococci in children.
Abstract: Objectives: The study compared and evaluated the effects of tongue scraping and tongue brushing on salivary mutans streptococci levels in children.
Methods: The investigation was a single-blind, stratified comparison of three parallel groups of children who performed either tongue scraping or tongue brushing along with tooth brushing or only tooth brushing twice daily under professional supervision for a 21-day period. A total of three saliva samples were taken from each individual, at baseline, on day 10 and on day 21, and colony counts of mutans streptococci were determined. All data were subjected to statistical analysis using Wilcoxon’s signed-ranks sum test and Mann–Whitney U-test.
Results and conclusions: The results of the present study show that tongue scraping and tongue brushing demonstrated statistically significant reductions in salivary mutans streptococci counts after 10 days and also after 21 days. It was also noted that tongue scraping and tongue brushing were equally effective in reducing colony counts.
To cite this article:
Int J Dent Hygiene
DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-5037.2011.00513.x
Pakpour AH, Hidarnia A, Hajizadeh E, Kumar S, Fridlund B. Why Iranian adolescents do not brush their teeth: a qualitative study.
Objectives: To explore and describe attitudes towards tooth-brushing among Iranian adolescents.
Methods: A series of focus-group sessions were held with 37 Iranian adolescents in schools. The groups comprised five to eight adolescents. All focus-group discussions were tape-recorded and then transcribed verbatim. All transcripts, codes and categories were read several times to extract a theme. Data were analysed using a qualitative content analysis approach.
Results: Four major categories emerged from the analysis: brushing teeth is a necessary evil, parental influence on not brushing teeth, brushing teeth is insignificant, and brushing teeth is a health hazard. The theme identified in the latent content described that tooth-brushing is not part of the adolescents’ activities of daily living.
Conclusions: Health educators should stress on the engagement of parents, awareness of the adolescents on brushing techniques and causes of toothache, and address any misconceptions regarding tooth-brushing.
To cite this article: Int J Dent Hygiene 00, 2010; 000–000 DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-5037.2010.00493.x Genovesi AM, Ricci M, Marchisio O, Covani U.Periodontal dressing may influence the clinical outcome of non surgical periodontal treatment: a split-mouth study.
Abstract: Introduction: After scaling and root planning (SRP), healing induces the formation of a junctional long epithelium rather than a new connective attachment. We hypothesize that the placement of a periodontal dressing will be able to prevent detachment of coagulum inducing proper healing and improving periodontal parameters.
Materials and methods: This split-mouth study included 30 patients with periodontitis with ages ranging from 35 to 70 years. Probing pocket depth (PD), probing attachment level (PAL), bleeding on probing index (BoP) and plaque index (PI) were assessed before and after therapy. The group of patients received SRP in a span of 24 h. Then, a periodontal dressing was applied on the test side and it was removed after 1 week.
Results: Control group: The difference between PD values at baseline and after therapy was 1.6 ± 0.6 mm. The difference in PAL (ΔPAL) measurement was 1.4 ± 0.4. Test group: there was a greater PD reduction, this being 2.4 ± 0.6 mm on average. The difference in PAL was 2.5 ± 0.4 mm.
Conclusions: Our results clearly suggest that the use of a periodontal dressing improves the periodontal parameters after an SRP procedure. This is probably due to clot stabilization and prevention of bacterial colonization during wound healing.
To cite this article: Int J Dent Hygiene10, 2012; 3–8 DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-5037.2011.00512.x Buunk-Werkhoven YAB, Dijkstra-le Clercq M, Verheggen-Udding EL, de Jong N, Spreen M. Halitosis and oral health-related quality of life: a case report.
Abstract: Objectives: This is a clinical case of a 36-year-old Dutch male, patient in the Dr. S. van Mesdag Forensic Psychiatric Centre in Groningen. It demonstrates a short-time effect of a tailored oral hygiene self-care intervention in three sessions over a period of 3 months on halitosis and a patient’s oral health-related quality of life (OH-QoL).
Methods: In addition to a dental screening and professional oral hygiene care, a semi-structured interview was conducted by the dental hygienist, and questionnaires were administered. The questionnaires included were; the Dutch version of the Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14-NL; used as a measurement of OH-QoL), scales for expected social outcomes for having healthy teeth, attitudes towards oral hygiene behaviour (OHB) and dental anxiety.
Results: Clinical observations showed an improvement in patient’s OHB, while the extreme foetor-ex-ore was reduced to an acceptable level. A retrospective assessment showed that patient’s attitude towards the recommended OHB together with his self-perceived OH-QoL had positively increased.
Conclusions: This case highlights the value of professional individual oral hygiene instructions performed by a dental hygienist. It also illustrates that a patient’s effective OHB may play an important role in the reduction in halitosis and self-perceived OH-QoL. Finally, the retrospective version of the OHIP-14-NL may be an adequate method to assess self-perceived OH-QoL within a relative short period of time.
To cite this article: Int J Dent Hygiene10, 2012; 9–14 DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-5037.2011.00511.x Öhrn K, Jönsson B. A comparison of two questionnaires measuring oral health-related quality of life before and after dental hygiene treatment in patients with periodontal disease.
Abstract: Aim: The aim of this study was to compare the usefulness of two different questionnaires assessing oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) at the basic examination and after initial dental hygiene treatment (DHtx). Methods: A total of 42 patients referred for periodontal treatment completed the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) and the General Oral Health Assessment Index (GOHAI) at the basic periodontal examination. They underwent DHtx and completed the questionnaires once again after the treatment. Results: No statistically significant differences could be found between the two assessments, neither for the total scores nor for any of the separate items of the OHIP-14 or the GOHAI. However, the GOHAI questionnaire seems to result in a greater variety in the responses indicating that the floor effect is not as pronounced as for the OHIP-14. Those who had rated their oral health as good reported significantly better OHRQoL on both questionnaires. The same pattern was found for patients who reported that they were satisfied with their teeth. After DHtx and necessary extractions, there was a statistically significant correlation between the number of teeth and the total scores on both questionnaires. No other statistically significant correlations with periodontal variables could be found. Conclusion: No statistically significant difference could be found after DHtx compared to before in regard to OHRQoL assessed with OHIP-14 and GOHAI. However, there was a greater variety in the responses with the GOHAI questionnaire; it may hereby be more useful for patients with periodontal disease.
To cite this article:Int J Dent Hygiene10, 2012; 15–21 DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-5037.2011.00533.x Dahl KE, Wang NJ, Öhrn K. Does oral health matter in people’s daily life? Oral health-related quality of life in adults 35–47 years of age in Norway.
Abstract: Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the effect of oral health on aspects of daily life measured by the Dental Impact Profile (DIP) in 35- to 47-year-old individuals in Norway, and to study associations between reported effects and demographic variables, subjectively assessed oral health, general health, oral health behaviour and clinical oral health. Material and methods: A stratified randomized sample of 249 individuals received a questionnaire regarding demographic questions, dental visits, oral hygiene behaviour, self-rated oral health and general health and satisfaction with oral health. The DIP measured the effects of oral health on daily life. Teeth present and caries experience were registered by clinical examination. Bi- and multivariate analyses and factor analysis were used. Results: Items most frequently reported to be positively or negatively influenced by oral health were chewing and biting, eating, smiling and laughing, feeling comfortable and appearance. Only 1% reported no effects of oral health. Individuals with fewer than two decayed teeth, individuals who rated their oral health as good or practised good oral health habits reported more positive effects than others on oral quality of life (P ≤ 0.05). When the variables were included in multivariate analysis, none was statistically significant. The subscales of the DIP were somewhat different from the originally suggested subscales. Conclusions: This study showed that most adults reported oral health to be important for masticatory functions and confirmed that oral health also had impacts on other aspects of life.
To cite this article: Int J Dent Hygiene10, 2012; 22–29 DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-5037.2011.00519.x Dumitrescu AL, Zetu L, Teslaru S. Instability of self-esteem, self-confidence, self-liking, self-control, self-competence and perfectionism: associations with oral health status and oral health-related behaviours.
Abstract: Aim: Our aim was to explore whether instability of self-esteem, self-confidence, self-liking, self-control, self-competence and perfectionism each has an independent contribution to the self-rated oral health and oral health-related behaviours.
Material and methods: A cross-sectional study design was used. Data were collected between November 2008 and May 2009. The sample consisted of 205 Romanian adults (mean age: 29.84 years; 65.2% women; 40% married) who were a random population drawn consecutively from the registry file of two private dental practices in the Iasi area. The questionnaire included information about demographic, psychological, self-reported oral health and oral health-related behaviour items.
Results: The comparison of participants who never flossed their teeth with those who flossed everyday showed statistically significant lower levels of self-confidence (P < 0.05), self-liking (P = 0.001), self-competence (P < 0.0001), self-control (P < 0.05) and Perfectionism Scores (P < 0.05). Significant higher levels of self-competence were scored in persons who used weekly mouthrinses comparing with never users (P = 0.012). Also patients who visited the dentist mainly when treatment is needed or when pain presented lower levels of self-competence and self-control comparing with those who visited the dentist mainly for check-up or for tooth cleaning and scaling (P < 0.05). Oral health behaviours (toothbrushing and mouthrinse frequencies) were predicted by multiple regression analyses using sociodemographic (age, gender), self-competence and perfectionism variables.
Conclusions: Our study showed that instability of self-esteem, self-confidence, self-competence, self-liking, self-control and perfectionism was associated not only with self-rated dental health but also with oral health behaviours. Understanding the psychological factors associated with oral hygiene can further the development and improvement in therapeutic strategies to be used in oral health-improving programs, as well as of programs aimed at prevention and education.
To cite this article:Int J Dent Hygiene10, 2012; 30–35 DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-5037.2011.00521.x Abrahamsson KH, Andersson P, Krok L, Hakeberg M. Evaluation of the Dental Hygienist Beliefs Survey; test–retest assessment in a group of general dental patients.
Abstract: Objective: To evaluate the Dental Hygienist Beliefs Survey (DHBS) and the test–retest reliability of DHBS in a group of general dental patients.
Material and methods: The DHBS, which is a questionnaire constructed to assess patients’ specific attitudes towards dental hygienists (DHs), was distributed together with the Dental Anxiety Scale adapted to specifically assess fear of DH treatment (DHAS). It was hypothesized that DHBS would correlate with DHAS and gender. The questionnaires were consecutively distributed to 80 patients at their first visit and after a clinical examination performed by a DH student. Retest assessments of DHBS were conducted approximately two weeks later in conjunction with the next visit at the DH student and before treatment (scaling session). The final study sample included 77 adult general dental patients in treatment at an education clinic for DH students.
Results: The results verified a statistically significant correlation between DHBS and DHAS. The DHBS sum of scores showed high internal consistency with Cronbach’s a coefficient of 0.88 and 0.91 at the first and second assessments, respectively, and the test–retest reliability of the DHBS was acceptable with intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.76. No statistically significant association was found between DHBS and gender.
Conclusion: The results suggest that the DHBS is a reliable and stable scale to use to assess patients’ specific attitudes towards DHs. Moreover, DH beliefs are associated with fear of DH treatment.
To cite this article: Int J Dent Hygiene10, 2012; 36–45 DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-5037.2011.00510.x Rogo EJ. Dental hygienists as adult learners and educators to improve access to care.
Abstract: Objective: The purpose of the qualitative study was to understand dental hygienists as adult learners and educators in their quest to improve access to care. The intent of this article is to share the results from open and focused coding procedures and the participants’ rich stories from which the analysis was constructed.
Methods: A grounded theory approach to data collection and analysis was used. Data were collected from eight practitioners in three US states who met the inclusion criteria, using semi-structured interviews. Traditional grounded theory procedures with a constructivist emphasis on lived experiences of the participants and situational analysis were used to analyse the data.
Results: The process of learning was experienced in three categories: Awareness, Adaptation and Relationships. Awareness was the process of learning participants experienced as developing consciousness of self, status quo, power and injustice of systems. Adaptation was constructed from experiences of specializing and creating to adjust to the new environments and prepare future practitioners. Relationships were developed to feel connected and collaborate to build support and gain respect to improve access to care. Dental hygienists as educators revealed one category: Improvement. Improvement was the process of educating others to enhance awareness, oral health and the dental hygiene profession.
Conclusions: Dental hygienists were adult learners by using their experiences in the context of their struggle to improve health inequities. A strong educator role was necessary to make improvements in the oral health delivery system.
To cite this article: Int J Dent Hygiene10, 2012; 46–53 DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-5037.2011.00517.x Arpalahti I, Järvinen M, Suni J, Pienihäkkinen K. Acceptance of oral health promotion programmes by dental hygienists and dental nurses in public dental service.
Objectives: The aim of this study was to analyse how dental hygienists and in-service trained dental nurses accepted new health promotion programmes, how did they experience them in practice, and how did these programmes affect their attitudes to work.
Methods: The subjects were all the dental hygienists and in-service trained dental nurses (n = 28) involved in health promotion of small children. Education and written instructions on two new programmes had been given to the professionals in two areas of Vantaa and those in the third area used the routine programme. The transtheoretical model (TTM) was selected as the theoretical framework for counselling. A structured questionnaire of 31–35 items was sent to all subjects. Independent samples Mann–Whitney U and Fisher’s exact tests were used as statistical methods.
Results: The response rate was 89%. All respondents felt that the work they had carried out had always been important during their working career. Twenty-one of 25 respondents reported that the instructions and education were suitable for oral health promotion. The respondents within the new programmes felt they had advanced more as health professionals (P = 0.020) and acquired more confidence from the education (P = 0.018) compared with the routine programme.
Conclusions: The new programmes for small children were well accepted by the dental hygienists and the in-service trained dental nurses, and the majority of them gained some new practices for their work.
To cite this article: Int J Dent Hygiene10, 2012; 54–60 DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-5037.2011.00530.x Andersson P, Westergren A, Johannsen A. The invisible work with tobacco cessation – strategies among dental hygienists.
Abstract: Objective: This study elucidates dental hygienists’ experiences of work with tobacco cessation among patients who smoke or use snuff.
Methods: Data were obtained and categorized by interviewing 12 dental hygienists, who worked actively with tobacco cessation interventions. Qualitative content analysis was used for analysis.
Results: The latent content was formulated into the core category ‘the invisible oral health promotion work’. The informants thought that they had a responsibility to work with tobacco cessation. They perceived the financial system in which they perform the activity as frustrating, because tobacco cessation has no treatment code in the dental care insurance. This was one of several reasons why they had to integrate it in other treatment procedures. The results identified three categories: ‘balance in the meeting’, ‘possibilities and hindrance’ and ‘procedures’. In the narratives, both positive and negative aspects were displayed.
Conclusions: The financial conditions for tobacco cessation interventions need to be reformed and the activity has to be given a higher priority in the organization of dental care. Practical training in performing tobacco cessation interventions is important during the dental hygiene education; otherwise, tobacco cessation interventions will remain invisible in oral health promotion in the future.
To cite this article: Int J Dent Hygiene10, 2012; 61–66 DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-5037.2011.00528.x Yoshida N, Aso T, Asaga T, Okawa Y, Sakamaki H, Masumoto T, Matsui, K, Kinoshita A. Introduction and evaluation of computer-assisted education in an undergraduate dental hygiene
Abstract: Objective: This paper introduced newly developed computer-assisted learning materials and reports of a survey of junior college dental hygiene students who have used them. Methods: We authored new educational material to promote students’ basic dental hygiene practice skills using a simulation software generator. A set of five developed materials were tested by 43 female second-year dental hygiene students during the second semester at a college in Chiba, Japan. The evaluation was conducted in the form of a questionnaire including open-ended questions. Students’ opinions were analysed using characteristic diagrams, a troubleshooting tool that can be used to visually illustrate the causes and effects of a problem. Result: The overall results of the evaluation were positive. The students were given five sets of simulation learning materials (SLMs). Eighty-three percent of the students felt that they could carry out independent study of clinical practice better after the virtual practice. Ninety-three percent of them felt that the exercises should be continued in the future, and eighty-eight percent of them felt that this virtual practice deepened their interest in other classes and training sessions. All of the students found the virtual practice beneficial for their learning. Discussion: The present results suggest that the students became conscious of their lack of knowledge through SLMs. These findings indicate that SLMs for practicing basic clinical procedures is beneficial.
To cite this article:Int J Dent Hygiene10, 2012; 67–73 DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-5037.2011.00508.x Parwani SR, Chitnis PJ, Parwani RN. Salivary nitric oxide levels in inflammatory periodontal disease – A case-control and interventional study.
Abstract: Background: Biochemical markers of inflammatory periodontal disease present in saliva can partially determine the extent of periodontal disease. Furthermore, collection of salivary constituents is a simple and non-invasive procedure. Nitric oxide (NO) has been linked to etiopathogenesis of inflammatory periodontal disease and is expressed in saliva. This study was conducted with the objective of estimating salivary NO levels in inflammatory periodontal diseases (gingivitis and periodontitis) and comparing these levels with control subjects. A re-assessment of these levels was also made after providing appropriate treatment with a view to ascertain its diagnostic and prognostic values.
Methods: This was a case–control as well as an interventional study including a total of 90 (30 control, 30 gingivitis and 30 periodontitis) subjects. Saliva samples were collected from each subject, and NO levels were assayed by Griess reaction.
Results: NO levels were increased significantly in gingivitis and periodontitis subjects as compared with controls. There was a statistically significant decrease in the NO levels in each study group after the healing period (corresponding to the reduced clinical signs of inflammation). Our study also correlated probing pocket depths with salivary NO levels in periodontitis group where we found a positive correlation between the two.
Conclusion: Salivary NO levels can be utilized as a good indicator of the inflammatory status of the periodontium, and evaluating its levels in saliva by Griess reaction on a photoelectric colorimeter is a reliable, accurate and faster method to estimate the level of inflammation in periodontal tissues.
To cite this article: Int J Dent Hygiene10, 2012; 74–79 DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-5037.2011.00509.x Darby IB, Polster A, Gan JS, Guo Q, Henein N, Heredia A, Horina H, Sanduja D, Radvar M. Left-to-right distribution of periodontal disease.
Abstract: Aim: Symmetry is a property established in many human biological systems and it is reasonable to expect that it may also exist in the mouth. The objective of this study was to examine whether there is a similar left-to-right distribution in periodontal disease.
Method: Records of 197 patients from the Periodontics department of The Royal Dental Hospital of Melbourne were analysed. The clinical parameters recorded were pocket probing depth, recession, bleeding on probing, mobility and furcation involvement.
Results: The average age of our sample group was 47.5 years old, with 34.5% men and 65.5% women. The results demonstrated significant left-to-right distribution with all the periodontal indices recorded.
Conclusion: The findings support previous studies that show that a similar left-to-right distribution exists in the population studied.