Development of Web-based intervention system for periodontal health: a pilot study in the workplace

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Abstract
Background: It has recently been accepted that periodontal disease is a risk factor for not only tooth loss but also systemic diseases. An effective system of public intervention for periodontal health to enable continuous intervention of dental professionals has been sought. We developed a Web-based intervention system regarding periodontal health and evaluated the effects of the system in the workplace. Methods: The system was capable of storage and display of personalized oral health records including video images pertaining to toothbrush manipulation within their own oral cavities based on instructions by dental professionals. The system enabled clients to view movement of their own skill, and repeatedly. Thirteen workers of a company were randomized to either an experimental or control group. The control group received face-to-face toothbrushing instruction at the company and follow-up via telephone. The experimental group received follow-up through our system in addition to those components employed in the control group. Main results: The workers in the experimental group benefited in terms of improvements of not only plaque removal but also periodontal health over 3 months. Conclusions: These results indicate that implementation of an Web-based approach for periodontal health affords the possibility of remote instruction and produces additional public benefit.