A cluster randomized controlled trial testing the effectiveness of a school-based dental health education program for adolescents

Abstract

Objectives: This trial investigated the value of a school-based dental health education program in terms of changes in knowledge, reported behavior, and plaque scores. Methods: A total of 2,678 pupils with a mean age of 12.1 years attending 28 schools participated in a school-based dental health education program. The study used a cluster randomized controlled study design. The health service administrators stipulated that all participants receive the intervention; to meet this requirement, a rolling program of two six-month periods was utilized. During the first six months, half the adolescents received the intervention program, the other half acting as controls. Throughout a further six-month period, all participants received the intervention program. This research design allowed comparisons between participants receiving the program for six and 12 months. At baseline, six, and 12 months, a random subsample of 40 children in each participating school had their plaque scores recorded and a questionnaire was used to record their knowledge of dental health and reported dental behavior. Results: The analysis used the subjects clustered within the schools, which were the units of randomization. The intervention program produced statistically significant improvements (P