Effect of oral hygiene instructions given by paraprofessional personnel

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Abstract
The effect of hygiene instructions given by specially trained chair-side assistants was studied and the value of depuration prior to instructions was tested. Chair-side assistants were trained to motivate and instruct patients in oral hygiene methods. The 71 participants (12 female and 59 male employees of the same industrial firm) were divided into 3 groups. Group C received depuration (1 visit) prior to oral hygiene instructions, Group B hygiene instructions only and Group A depuration only. Following instructions, the participants were examined after 4, 12 and 24 wk with respect to: DMFT (diseased, missing or filled tooth), Gingival Index, Retention Index, plaque surface and periodontal pockets .gtoreq. 4 mm. A reduction in plaque surfaces from baseline to 24 wk was shown in Groups B and C of 67% and 70% (difference not significant). Slight improvement was noted in Group A. Significant improvement was also observed in Gingival Index scores and pocket depths. Significant differences were not found between the groups with respect to Retention Index scores. Smoking did not influence the program. The effects of instructions were retained after 6 mo. The use of this kind of personnel is highly effective and expedient. The present model can be useful in preventive dental health work.