Feasibility of provision and evaluation of sealants for children having caries related dental extractions under a general anaesthetic

Raja, Abida (2020). Feasibility of provision and evaluation of sealants for children having caries related dental extractions under a general anaesthetic. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

Children experiencing caries related dental treatment under general anaesthetic (GA) are vulnerable to relapse, so prevention is paramount. Evidence based pro-active interventions are required to address the preventive needs of this high-risk group and this includes making better use of opportunities offered by the GA encounter.

The principal aim of this research was to develop and undertake a pilot randomised control trial (RCT) to assess the feasibility of provision and evaluate the outcome, of sealing sound permanent molars, during the pre-GA assessment visit, in children requiring caries related extractions under a chair GA. This was supported by a service evaluation on the need for sealants in this cohort and investigating referring practitioners’ views and practices on prevention for high-risk children.

Findings identified an unmet need for sealants and found children were at high risk of new caries in permanent molars that were sound at the time of the GA. Sealant placement during the pre-GA assessment appointment was feasible and had the potential to reduce caries incidence in permanent molars. Moving forwards, a definitive multi-centre RCT is justified to further explore delivery of this intervention.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

Supervisor(s):