An evaluation of proposed revisions to the W.H.O. manual "Oral Health Surveys-Basic Methods"

The authors describe the organization and results of an epidemiologic training program which formed part of a W.H.O. sponsored course in public health dentistry held in Malaysia in May-June 1975. Twenty-two participants from 16 countries took part. They had a wide variety of qualifications and training; only four had had previous experience in the conduct of an oral health survey. The method and criteria that were proposed for inclusion in the second edition of Oral Health Surveys - Basic Methods were tested in two calibration exercises and one field trial. The usefulness of most of the recommendations was confirmed. The main problem areas concern dentofacial anomalies, intense gingivitis and advanced periodontal involvement. A successful feature of the study was the practicability for public health planning of assessing requirements for treatment.