The role of maternal and child health personnel in oral health promotion in Tanzania

Abstract

The National Plan for Oral Health (1988 - 2000) recommends that  whenever general health education is comJuctetl, a message promoting oral health should be included. The strategy for involving non-dental health workers in oral health promotion has focused primarily on the Maternal and Child Health Nurse or MCH Aides and school teachers. The goal is for MCU-Aitles to teach oral health to mothers attending MCH-clinics. The theoretical model of the programme proposes that the MCH-Aide can be trained to give effective oral health education lessons to mothers who are attending MCH-clinics. The mothers in turn will adopt better oral health habits regartling tooth brushing antl diet control and will teach their children. The content of the lessons given to mothers include   demonstration of toothbrushing for children and adults using modern and.
traditional toothbrushes (chew-sticks), promotion of breast feeding and advice on a balanced diet including sugar restriction. Also included are messages intended to discourage certain harmful cultural practices that exist in certain parts of the country. The long term expected outcome is that oral hygiene practices and periodontal status of the children will  improve and that their caries incidences stays at the same low level.