Improving the dental health program in Tuao, Cagayan /
Krystel Marie T. Perocho.
- xii, 74 leaves : color illustrations
Graduate School of Public and Development Management
Oral health problems still remain in many parts of the world, particularly among underprivileged communities in both developed and developing countries. In the Philippines, poor oral health is a persistent public health problem. Dental caries amongst other oral diseases is the most common manifestation of poor oral health especially in children. Poor oral health, of not prevented early could lead to severe forms of oral disease which could affect the quality of life. The study was aimed to determine the status of oral health in Tuao, Cagayan, the factors affecting the implementation of the Dental Health Program and identify strategies that could be implemented to improve the dental program in the community. The study took an in depth look at the dental health program, the gaps and factors and employed a qualitative descriptive method. Data were gathered through participant observation, survey, in depth interviews and records examination. Pre school children ages 2 5 years old were included in the study through purposive sampling in the 17 barangays in Tuao East. A total of 507 pre school children ages 2 5 years undergone dental examination by the dentist. Results of the study show that there is a poor health status in the community. Out of 507 students, 89% have dental carriers and 11% were orally fit at that time of examination. Lack of knowledge about proper oral hygiene was also noted among parents. On the other hand, gaps were identified in the implementation of the Dental Health Program which affect the quality and access of oral health services. Strategies were developed to fill gaps in the implementation of the program and increase delivery of dental health services though accessible and quality oral health services to achieve better oral health outcomes. There is a poor health status in the Municipality of Tuao specifically in Tuao9 East because dental caries is prevalent especially among children. Though in various age group dental caries is also prevalent, dental caries is first observed as early as 2 years old. The strategies and interventions implemented are effective in increasing the oral health awareness validated through return demonstrations and correct feedbacks when asked about proper oral health. The strategies implemented in the study are also similar in other researches adopting evidence based strategies.
Oral health services--Tuao, Cagayan, Philippines. Oral hygiene--Education. Oral health care.