Promoting the Oral Health in 6 to 12 Years Old School Students: A Systematic Review

Because of the high prevalence of dental caries, the develop-ment of permanent teeth and the formation of life style, children 12-6 years old are the most important target groups of school oral health programs and the school is the easiest and most effective way to attain the group. This study examined the impact of school -based interven-tions to improve oral health in 6-12 years old school students. In this systematic review research evidence using databases such as, Scopus, Proquest, Science Direct, Pub Med,, Springer, Biomed Central, Google Scholar IranMedex and SID. Studies published between January 2004 and September 2014 were in-cluded. Using key words in Farsi and English, and educational interventions for the preven-tion of oral diseases and promotion of healthy behaviors related among elementary students in the school environment were studied. Seventeen studies met the inclusion criteria. Interventions in these two classifications (preventive services and education, educational programs) have positive effects on children’s dental health. Continuous Interventions, parents and school staff involved in the program, ap-plication of behavioral change theories and models, Practical experience and prevention ser-vices, Multi-component education are more effective in increasing children, knowledge, health behaviors and reducing plaque and tooth decay. Community-based continuing education approach, using a Multi-component ed-ucation, follow up, application of behavioral change theories and models and prevention ser-vices are effective to reach the expected results.