AN ORAL HEALTH SURVEY IN THE GOVERNORATE OF ALEXANDRIA

Abstract

Although oral conditions are not life threatening, the Widespread prevalence of oral diseases and the compelling nature of the sequelae of caries do force themselves to the attention of health planners. However,

the determination of priorities and the development of dental care programs cannot proceed, unless oral health status is reasonably well known. It is equally important to gather infonnation about trends in oral health so that accm·ate future needs can be predicted

The sound basis for estimation of the present status and future needs of oral health care is cunently provided through WHO Basic Oral Health surveys. These surveys produce reliable baseline data provide a full picture of the oral health status and treatment needs of theopulation; and subsequently, monitor the changes in disease levels and patterns. With these infonnations. it is possible to assess the appropriateness and effectiveness of the current services provided, and to plan or replan oral care services and training programs, as needed.

Disease ts one of the many resultant effects of a continuing interplay between man and his environment. It 1s, therefore, to be expected that conditions of health should vary not onlr between developing and technically developed countries, but also between rural and urban communities, as well as between different socioeconomic groups Within the same country.