Affiliations 

  • 1 Machang District Dental Health Clinic
Q Bulletin, 2020;1(29):46-55.
MyJurnal

Abstract

Preschool children are one of the major target groups of the Oral Health Program, Ministry of Health Malaysia. However, caries prevalence of preschool children due to unmet treatment needs remains high. Thus, it is imperative for preschool children to receive dental treatment to maintain or restore function and aesthetics, prevent premature tooth loss and improve their quality of life. We aimed to increase the percentage of preschool children receiving dental treatment at kindergartens from 9.8% to 30% in a year. A cross-sectional study was conducted in January 2015 to March 2015 to identify factors contributing to low percentage of preschool children receiving dental treatment using a structured questionnaire modified and adapted from literatures. Ten kindergartens in Machang District were randomly selected, and a total of 200 preschool children, 180 parents and 13 dental therapists in Machang District were recruited for this study. Remedial measures were implemented in April 2015 until September 2015, followed by a post-remedial evaluation in October 2015 to December 2019. The factors contributing to low percentage included inconvenient visit schedule, lack of monitoring system, preschool children at kindergartens refusing dental treatment, and lack of oral health knowledge and awareness among parents. A series of interventions were introduced including improvement of care process, systematic planned visits, and formation of a dedicated team for kindergartens. Oral Health Education and seminars were given to parents. Supportive environment and innovations were created, including colorful attire, cartoon accessories and Benzo Kids’ eye-wear tools. The Benzo Kids functioned as a smart phone holder for a child to watch their favourite video during treatment to divert the child’s attention and reduce anxiety. The percentage of preschool children receiving dental treatment at kindergartens increased from 9.8% (2014) to 55.9% (2019), which exceeded the initial target of 30%. This study has had a significant impact on the number of deciduous teeth with dental caries of these preschool children when they progress to primary one. The HMIS data showed a decreasing trend of dental caries per 100 children from 80(2013) to 58(2019).