The outcome of School dental screening on increasing utilization rates in dental offices of Lucknow city

Abstract

Introduction: In various parts of the country, school dental screening has been regularly conducted as well as in many countries as a part of school health programme. The objective of the study was to assess that school dental screening improves utilization rates in dental clinics and increases acceptance of preventive care. Methodology: A total of 12 schools were randomly selected and divided into 2 groups, study group (n=1832) and control group(n=1899), 6 schools in each group. Utilization rates were determined within 3 months period from the start of screening program. Chi-square test was used to test the difference between groups. Results: The attendance rate for utilizing dental care in the study group was 55.54% and in the control group was 24.97%. Preventive care was seeked in 40.09% of the study group and in 49.80% of the control group. Conclusion: Screening programs significantly improved the follow up at dental clinics. Preventive care was seeked in both groups, after coming to the college, at the advice of a dentist.