The primary investigation and experiment of a community-based family dentist model for children aged 1-3 years old in Wuhan

To explore the effect of a community family doctor model on caries management for children aged 1 to 3 years in Wuhan, and to provide basis for community prevention and control of children's caries.

Using stratified randomization and paired sampling, 1000 children aged 1 to 3 years were selected from the core community of the Wuhan Donghu High-tech Zone. The trial group was followed up 4 times a year at home or in the clinic, and the control group was followed up only at the baseline and the endpoint (2 years later). Caries and caries status were examined at baseline and 2 years later, and brushing behavior was investigated by questionnaire.

The prevalence/dmft in the test group and control group after two years were 15.8%/1.41 and 46.6%/3.25, respectively, and the difference was statistically significant. The frequency with which parents helped their children to brush in the test group improved significantly compared to that of the control group.

For children aged 1 to 3 years, the dental family doctor model of caries prevention is economical and effective, and its application and promotion are recommended.