A study of the dental health status of children participating in the Child Health Investment Partnership

Abstract

This study presents findings on the dental health status of a portion of the children participating in the dental component of the Child Health Investment Partnership (CHIP). The children in the CHIP group were compared on six variables to a comparison group of children seen at one participating CHIP dental office. Analyses of the data collected from the examination of 67 CHIP children and 178 children in the comparison group ages 2-13 revealed that upon initial visit to the dental office, the mean DMF score was .83 and 2.00, respectively. Dental visits at six months, revealed mean DMF values of 1.23 for the CHIP group and 2.65 for the comparison group. At one year dental visits, the CHIP group mean DMF score was 2.00 and the comparison group mean DMF score was 2.40. At six month and one year dental visits the CHIP group, when compared to the comparison group, receives no significantly different level of treatment (F/DMF) or experiences a Significantly different level of morbidity (D/DMF).

The percentage of failed appointments was not found to be significantly different at 21% (comparison group) and 20% (CHIP). A survey containing nine questions was constructed by the researcher and administered to five dentists participating in the CHIP program. Missed appointments and low reimbursement were the only areas noted for improvement. Results revealed successful progress of the dental care received by CHIP children.

This research will aid CHIP staff in determining the effectiveness of the dental health component of CHIP and will provide a baseline study from which future evaluation of the program may expand.