Evaluation of tablet PC as a tool for teaching tooth brushing to children

Authors:

ABSTRACT

Aim

This study evaluated the effect of a single time tooth brushing instruction using video on a tablet PC (Apple iPad)
compared to operator presentation using jaw model for plaque removal.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included a convenience
sample of 100 children divided into two groups. For Group 1 brushing was demonstrated to the child by the operator with the use of a
jaw model. This demonstration was videotaped for subsequent use in Group 2 using a tablet PC (Apple iPad). Plaque index was
recorded before and after demonstration of the assigned method of teaching tooth brushing.

Results

The results showed a
significant difference using the two methods. The difference between the mean plaque index values with the jaw model and tablet PC at
baseline and after tooth brushing represented 17.27 (50 improvement) and 11.56 (34 improvement)
respectively. Boys showed a 18.3. higher improvement in tooth brushing compared to girls. Seventy-five percent of the children
reported using tablet computers in their daily life. CONCLUSION Teaching children by using a jaw model was more effective in
improving plaque index score than using video on tablet PC by 16. Both methods of tooth brushing teaching were fully accepted
by all children.

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