Longitudinal evaluation of a preventive program provided by general dental practitioners to young adult Danes

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Abstract
In 1976, a preventive program was established for young adults under the general dental program of the Danish National Health Insurance. Utilization and effects of and the feasibility of public economic support for preventive dentistry was studied longitudinally during the years 1976-80. Out of .apprx. 140,000 evaluation cards sent out, 42,000 were returned from general dental practitioners concerning 20,000 individuals, 12,000 of whom were reported twice or more. Information was collected on use of preventive service and health status based on visible plaque index (VPI) and gingival bleeding index (GBI). About 1/5 of the study population received the preventive service, consisting of chairside dental education and oral hygiene instruction. Associations between provision of prevention and VPI/GBI scores were found. From first to last dental visit in the evaluation period improvement in VPI and GBI scores was registered, proportionally more in the group that received preventive service. Internal and external validity of the results and policy implications of the study are discussed.

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