Effectiveness of Oral Health Educational Interventions on Oral Health Status among ‎Visually Impaired Children

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Visually impaired children encounter unique challenges in maintaining oral hygiene, resulting in higher rates of caries and periodontal disease compared to sighted peers. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a tailored Audio, Tactile, and Performance (ATP) intervention on oral health behaviors and clinical status among visually impaired children in Erbil, Iraq. Methods: A pre‑test/post‑test interventional study was conducted with 69 visually impaired students aged 6–15 years. Baseline data included dmft/DMFT, Oral Hygiene Index (OHI), Gingival Index (GI), and an interview-based questionnaire on oral health behaviors. Participants received a multisensory ATP program (audio instructions, tactile training, and performance-based practice), followed by reinforcement sessions. Follow‑up assessments were conducted after two months. Results: The mean OHI score decreased significantly from 2.07 to 1.23 (p < 0.001), while mean GI reduced from 2.10 to 1.65 (p < 0.001). Brushing frequency improved, with twice‑daily brushing increasing from 28.1% to 71.9% (p < 0.001). Horizontal brushing decreased from 54.4% to 10.5%, while combined techniques increased from 40.4% to 80.7% (p < 0.001). Similarly, brushing both morning and evening improved from 38.6% to 71.9% (p = 0.002). Conclusion: The ATP oral health program applied in the study resulted in significantly improved clinical outcomes and oral hygiene behaviors. This indicates that, as a culturally adaptable intervention for children who are blind, it is effective.