Abstract
We investigated the feasibility of introducing a saliva -based caries risk test into the oral health education in schools for 12- and 13-year-olds in Hiroshima prefecture, Japan. We also assessed theeducational benefits of the test in terms of the prevention of dental caries and the increase in student motivation. Results of our investigation suggested that the staff should be educated to reduce testing time, and they should conduct only three tests, i.e. those for the salivary secretion rate, salivary mutans streptococci and salivary buffering capacity on implementing a saliva test in the school setting.Because in this case the person being tested bears the cost of testing, it was necessary to obtain student and parent understanding on the effectiveness of the test and the enhanced oral health guidance resulting from its use. A survey of results after testing revealed a gender distinction in three variables : ‘I intend to chew more when I eat', ‘I would like to perform the saliva test on a regular basis'and ‘I would like to inform m y family about the function of saliva when I get home'. The results suggested the need to promote oral heath education in girls by creating a firm connection with their domestic life and in boys by using school education to focus their attention towards comprehension and oral health.
