A . Purpose , Scope

The purpose of this study, which was carried out during the 1972-73 school year at three parochial schools in the Houston area, was to determine the effectiveness of the Toothkeeper Program, a multimedia program of oral hygiene training carefully developed and packaged to establish effective long-term dental hygiene practice. The study population consisted of students in the first through sixth grades. Entire classes were designated as control or experimental subjects. The teachers of the experimental classes participated in a 3-hour workshop in the use of the Toothkeeper Program presented by the manufacturer of the product. The program was then carried out for a period of 16 weeks. The effectiveness of the program was evaluated through two clinical assessments of oral health and a questionnaire. A review of the clinical data (mean gingevitis and mean plaque scores) and photographic data indicates conclusively that the participants in the program did not show improved oral health and tooth cleanliness as compared with the participants who were not in the program. The program was apparently ineffective even for the short term. (HMD) DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, EDUCATION, AND WELFARE Public Health Service Health Resources Administration Bureau of Health Resources Development Division of Dental Health Preventive Practices Branch