DYNAMICS OF ORAL HYGIENE AND GINGIVAL STATUS DURING A COMPREHENSIVE GROUP PREVENTIVE ORAL HEALTH PROGRAM IN CHILDREN

Aim: To monitor the dynamics of oral hygiene and gingival status during a comprehensive group preventive oral health program for children. Materials And Methods: The study included 106 children aged 11-13 years. Oral hygiene status (FMPS) and gingival status (FMBS) were assessed for all children. The comprehensive preventive program was conducted over 4 visits within 1 month, through a motivation module and an education module. Results: The oral hygiene and gingival status of the studied children improved gradually during the program, with plaque accumulation being minimal 1 month after the beginning of the program, affecting approximately 30% of the tooth surfaces. The gingival status in all children showed a presence of bleeding on probing, involving approximately 13% of the gingival units, which is considered as gingival health.