Abstract
We compared the dental plaque formation indicies on the central incisors and first molars in a total sample of 222 elementary school pupils, consisting of 110 boys and 112 girls.
When the plaque index was 0 on 1 in terms of Greene and Virwillion schemes, the incidence rate was approximately 25% when 6| was also 0. The other cases fell in the categories of degrees 1, 2, or 3. Tindings in the cases of 1, 1, and 1 were similar to those of 1.
In all elementary schools, statistical differences were found for the right and left upper and lower central incisors and between the first molars. A significant correlation (r) was found between the central incisors and first molars in two elementary schools, and the two other schools had a slight indication of statistical correlation.
When elementary school pupils are made the subjects of this kind of study, doubt remains whether or not the anteriors are appropriate to represent the entire jaw. It needs to be pointed out that, in carrying out a study of dental brushing of elementary school pupils, it is necessary that not only the plaque condition of the anteriors but also that of the molars should be equally studied.
