412 - Characteristics of Children Seeking Care at Co-located Dental Education Programs

Olson, B, Patel D, Bohaty B. “Characteristics of Children Seeking Care at Co-located Dental Education Programs”  Children’s Mercy Hospital and Clinics, Kansas City MO.

Background: Early childhood caries (ECC) is the most common chronic disease of childhood in the United States. Untreated caries may cause pain and infections which can lead to problems with eating, speaking, and learning. Caregivers establishing a dental home for their children’s oral health care is a critical step in preventing ECC.  

Purpose: The aim of this study is to evaluate and compare data obtained from oral health assessments completed for patient’s ages 6 months to 48 months, who were seen for dental care in the dental clinics at The University of Missouri- Kansas City School of Dentistry or Children’s Mercy Hospital. The clinics are co-located geographically but reside in two different institutions and buildings.  

Methods: De-identified data from two previous oral health assessment studies were evaluated and compared. Assessment data from 130 patients seen at UMKC and 282 patients seen at CMH were analyzed.

Results:  Statistically significant differences (p < .05) were seen in the number of patients who presented with visible plaque, visible enamel demineralization and visible decay. Children seen at a hospital dental clinic presented with more dental decay and were seen at a later age than those seen at a University based dental school clinic. 

Conclusion: Although geographically co-located in an urban center, patient’s seeking dental care in a hospital clinic present with more dental decay and at an older age than those seen in a dental school clinic.

Identify Supporting Agency and Grant Number: Research supported by Children's Mercy Hospital/University of Missouri - Kansas City