Effect of controlled oral hygiene procedures on caries and periodontal disease in adults

Abstract

The result of a clinical trial in which a group of adults were maintained on a proper oral hygiene standard over a 6-yr period is described. In 1971-1972, 375 individuals were recruited to a test group and 180 to a control group. During the 6 yr of trial, 65 persons from the test group and 34 controls were lost. The patients were divided into 3 age groups; I < 35 yr, II 36-50 yr, III > 50 yr. The members of the test and control groups were 1st subjected to a baseline examination which included assessments of oral hygiene, gingivitis, peridontal disease and caries. Following this examination all caries lesions were treated and ill-fitting dental restorations adjusted. Each patient was also given a detailed case presentation and a dental prophylaxis. The control group patients were not involved in any further dental health programs during the subsequent 6-yr period. Once a year, they were recalled to a public dental health clinic for examination and received symptomatic dental treatment. The test group participants were given a preventive treatment, repeated once every 2-3 mo. which included instruction and practice in oral hygiene techniques and meticulous prophylaxis. The patients were re-examined 3 and 6 wk after the baseline examination. At the follow-up examinations the parameters studied at the baseline examination were recorded again. A preventive program which stimulates individuals to adopt proper oral hygiene habits may resolve gingivitis and prevent progression of periodontal disease and caries. Traditional dental care did not prevent the progression of caries and periodontitis in adults.