Impact of School-Based Oral Health Education Programs on Dental Hygiene Practices Among Primary School Children in West Africa

Abstract

Oral health remains a significant public health challenge in West Africa, where primary school children face high rates of dental caries and periodontal diseases due to limited access to dental care services and inadequate oral hygiene knowledge. This study examines the impact of school-based oral health education programs on dental hygiene practices among primary school children across West African nations. Through a comprehensive analysis of existing literature and available data from multiple countries including Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, and Burkina Faso, this research evaluates the effectiveness of various educational interventions implemented in school settings. The findings reveal that structured oral health education programs incorporating demonstration-based teaching, supervised tooth brushing sessions, and culturally appropriate materials significantly improve children's knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding oral hygiene. Schools that implemented comprehensive programs demonstrated improvement rates ranging from 35% to 68% in proper brushing techniques and frequency. However, sustainability challenges including limited resources, inadequate teacher training, and lack of parental involvement continue to hinder long-term effectiveness. This paper provides evidence-based recommendations for policymakers, educators, and public health professionals to design and implement sustainable school-based oral health interventions that can effectively reduce the burden of dental diseases among West African children.