Oral Health Surveys by W.H.O.

Basic oral health surveys provide a sound basis for estimating the present oral health status of a population and its future needs for oral health care, and for monitoring changes in the levels and patterns of oral diseases and conditions. The methods described in the previous editions of this manual have been used by more than 130 health administrations in conducting oral health surveys. This new edition, which presents an updated version of the WHO Oral Health Assessment Form, takes account of the experience gained in these surveys, as well as of recent developments in oral health care and epidemiological techniques. In particular, new sections on the evaluation of extra-oral conditions, the oral mucosa, enamel opacities/hypoplasia, loss of periodontal attachment and dentofacial anomalies are included, in order to provide a more complete assessment of oral health. This manual should be of practical use to all those involved in oral epidemiology and oral health care planning.