Vengie C. Bangloy | Pauline Joy P. Caluza | Jemar P. Javier | Allyson S. Lallana | Adriel Peter E. Rosario
School of Dentistry
Dr. Maria Lourdes E. Cantor, Adviser
ABSTRACT
The maintenance of the oral health status of children and adolescents with Down Syndrome (DS) requires special care and attention. Their condition entails modification of tooth brushing technique to cater effectively to their needs. They are more prone to plaque accumulation. As such, focus must be on proper plaque control methods. This study was conducted to determine the effectiveness of plaque control intervention program for the children and adolescents with Down syndrome, enrolled in SPED Center, Baguio City during the SY 2012-2013. Education, instruction, and demonstration regarding proper tooth brushing technique for effective plaque removal were conducted. The two-pair group pre-test/post-test experimental design was utilized in this study. The Personal Hygiene Performance (PHP) Index by Podshadley and Haley was used in determining the effectiveness of plaque removal among the participants who were randomly divided as a control and an experimental group. The control group was not exposed to the intervention program.
Keywords: Down syndrome, plaque control, PHP index, intervention, oral health
