The Dental Neglect Scale in Adolescents
Author Information
Author(s): Coolidge Trilby, Heima Masahiro, Johnson Elissa K, Weinstein Philip
Primary Institution: University of Washington
Hypothesis
The Dental Neglect Scale (DNS) is a valid measure of dental neglect in adolescents.
Conclusion
The DNS appears to operate similarly in this sample of adolescents as it has in other samples of children and adults.
Supporting Evidence
- Adolescents with visible caries had significantly higher DNS scores.
- The test-retest reliability of the DNS was high (ICC = 0.81).
- Internal reliability was acceptable (Cronbach's alpha = 0.60).
- DNS scores were positively correlated with age.
Takeaway
This study looked at how well a questionnaire works to measure dental neglect in teenagers, and it found that it works just as well as it does for younger kids and adults.
Methodology
117 adolescents completed the DNS and indicated their dental attendance, while parents reported on check-ups; reliability was assessed through test-retest and internal consistency measures.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to reliance on self-reported and parental reported data.
Limitations
The study used a convenience sample, which may limit generalizability, and dental screenings were limited to visual assessments.
Participant Demographics
51% male, mean age 14.3 years, range 12-18 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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