Dental examinations

Oral health monitoring

School dental health activities carried out in public and private primary schools form part of a public health approach. They focus on initiatives to promote oral health in cycles 1 and 2.1, as well as on dental screening in cycles 1.2, 2.1, 3.1 and 4.2.

These preventive measures form part of a coherent, harmonised public health system that is equally accessible to all children nationwide.

Visits for cycles 1 and 2.1 are carried out by dentists from the School Health Division in all local authorities across the country. Screenings for cycles 3.1 and 4.2 are carried out by registered dentists in collaboration with local authorities. In specialist centres and integration classes, visits are carried out by dentists from the division for all four cycles.

The oral health issues identified during school-based screening are mainly:

• Caries and/or precursor lesions affecting primary and/or permanent teeth.
• Malocclusions of teeth or dental arches.
• Poor oral hygiene and any periodontal conditions.

Following the screening, if an abnormality is detected, a notice is sent to the child’s parents or legal guardians. They are advised to consult a dentist to ensure their child receives appropriate care and are asked to return the reply slip signed by the treating dentist.

The screening results are recorded in the pupil’s dental record, which accompanies them throughout their primary education.

Analysing this data helps to support the epidemiological monitoring of the oral health of the school population and to adapt prevention programmes.

Oral health education

The promotion of oral health is in line with the recommendations of the World Health Organisation, as well as European and national guidelines and strategies on public health and the health of children and adolescents.

Prevention is an essential element in ensuring good oral health. By adopting preventive behaviour from a very young age, it is possible to limit the onset of dental problems. It is therefore vital that children learn at an early age to look after their teeth and adopt habits that promote their health.

The prevention of tooth decay relies in particular on thorough oral hygiene and a healthy, balanced diet. Children are thus made aware of the importance of adopting healthy behaviours and encouraged to take an active role in their own health. Thanks to the school setting, this health education is provided equitably to all children.

Dentists in the School Health Division focus their work primarily on Cycles 1 and 2.1. However, oral health education remains a key priority that must be regularly reinforced throughout a child’s school career, with the involvement of the various stakeholders concerned.