Estimates of the effects of a statewide sealant initiative on dentists' knowledge and attitudes.

The effects of a statewide initiative promoting the use of dental sealants were evaluated by assessing dentists' knowledge and attitudes before the initiative and 18 months later. Immediate changes also were determined for participants in continuing education (CE) sessions, a principal component of the initiative. Results of these assessments indicate that minor improvements in knowledge and attitudes occurred, that the effects were stronger but still modest for those dentists who participated in CE sessions, and that respondents believed the initiative had resulted in increased use of sealants. This evaluation highlights the need for controlled assessments of the effectiveness of future promotional campaigns.