Participatory Oral Health Promotion Model Development for Preschool Children in Child Development Centers, Plai Bang Subdistrict, Bang Kruai District, Nonthaburi Province

Abstract

This study aimed to develop a participatory oral health promotion model for preschool children in child development centers in Plaibang Subdistrict, Bang Kruai District, Nonthaburi Province, using a Participatory Action Research (PAR) approach. The study samples comprised of 140 preschool children and key stakeholders, including teachers, parents, and related personnel. Data collection instruments included oral health examination forms, the decayed, missing, and filled teeth (dmft) index, dental plaque assessment, and questionnaires assessing parental knowledge, attitudes, and practices, as well as qualitative data obtained through focus group discussions and observations. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and comparative statistical tests, while qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis. The results showed a statistically significant reduction in the dmft among preschool children, with a significant decrease in decayed teeth (dt) and a significant increase in missing teeth (mt). Parental oral health knowledge increased significantly, whereas no statistically significant differences were found in parental attitudes and practices or in children’s dental plaque levels. Qualitative findings indicated that the participatory process enhanced awareness, a sense of ownership, and the capacity of teachers and parents to effectively care for children’s oral health. This participatory oral health promotion model demonstrated effectiveness in improving preschool oral health care and strengthening linkages to dental treatment services.