Integrated School-Based Child Oral Health Education

Abstract

Oral diseases, such as dental caries and periodontal disease are most widespread in developing countries, especially amongst children affecting their quality of life, appearance, nutritional intake and consequently their growth and development. The emphasis on oral health promotion through educational process has gained its importance to assist in the achievement of desired oral health outcomes in children. However, in Pakistani schools, oral health education is an intermittent activity provided only at few private sector schools and none in the public sector schools which may be due to lack of oral health awareness. It is suggested to endorse oral health education and promotion strategy in present schooling system in Pakistan regardless of urban or rural, public or private settings. With adequate training and education, school teachers can help in promoting oral hygiene practices amongst their students according to the principles of health education. This paper reviews the importance of oral health education and promotion of schoolchildren through schools and their teachers.