Influence of Preventive Programs for Reduction of DMFT Index in 12 Years Old Children in RNM on Dental Arch Space Changes

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect after implementation of a set of preventive measures trough the “National Strategy for prevention of oral diseases of children aged 0-14 years in Republic of North Macedonia (RNM) from 2008-2028” and the resulting need for orthodontic treatment in 12 years old Macedonian children. Material and method: This research was made in all 8 regions in RNM, including examined representatives from urban and rural areas equally.Using the WHO methodology for preparing Oral health studies, 7169 children, born in the year of 2007, were examined (33.3% from all the children in that generation).3117 of them were boys and 3050 were girls. The examinations were made in dental offices, by calibrated dentists-pedodontists, all employed in the public health sector. The decay-missing-filled (DMF)index was used as an appropriate measure for the detection of dental caries where 12-year-old children were considered as target group. Impressions were taken from 100 children (50 boys and 50 girls) with premature tooth loss to analyze the space condition and dental arch space changes. Results: After 11 years of implementation of preventive measures, evaluation showed impressive results – significant decrease of DMF index (from 6.88 to 2.43). Orthodontic analysis in the examined group with premature tooth loss showed greater extend of space loss and an increase in orthodontic treatment need. Conclusion: The implementation of the National strategy for prevention of oral diseases in RNM was an effective approach for preventing caries-related premature tooth loss in 12 years old children, preserving relevant dental arch length.