Province to Survey Oral Health of Grade 2 Students

Over the next two months public health dental hygienists will conduct an oral health survey of Grade 2 children in 115 schools to gather data to assist with program planning.

The dental hygienists will assess the oral health of the children by examining their teeth and mouth. The survey will also involve a parental questionnaire addressing oral health perceptions and behaviours.

"Oral health contributes to our overall health and this survey will provide us with the information we need to work towards improving children's oral health in Nova Scotia," said Sue MacIntosh, public health dental hygienist with Pictou County Health Authority.

The survey will provide a collection of baseline data to assist oral health program planning in Nova Scotia. It will also provide information for the provincial Fluoride Mouthrinse Program.

"It's a partnership between academia, the provincial government and local public health services that will help advance oral health in Nova Scotia," said Dr. Joanne Clovis, associate professor of Dalhousie University's School of Dental Hygiene.

The survey is a collaboration of the Department of Health Promotion and Protection, the District Health Authorities' public health services and Dalhousie University.