Oral health in 5-year-old Swedish children.

The purpose of the study was to investigate the oral health of a group of 5-year-old children who had previously been examined in this respect at 3 and 4 years of age. The results were compared with those in an aged-matched reference group. The study included examination of caries and gingivitis, occlusion, presence of lactobacilli and C. albicans in plaque samples, flow rate, pH and buffer effect of stimulated saliva, and certain data on past prophylaxis and oral habits. Caries was found in 76% of the children in the study group (S-group) and in 78% in the reference group (R-group). No significant differences were found in caries or gingival indices, in oral habits or prophylactic measures between the two groups. Buffer effect and pH of stimulated saliva were negatively correlated with deft and defs. Lactobacilli were demonstrated in 37% and C. albicans in 12% of the plaque samples. Various sucking habits were still present in 25% of the S-group and 22% of the R-group. Forty-nine and 46% respectively had been given a daily supply of fluoride tablets by their parents for at least 2 years.