[Evaluation of the reduction of the visible plaque index and of the gum bleeding index in a program of oral health promotion for children].

The purpose of this research was to evaluate the reduction of the VPI (visible plaque index) and of the GBI (gum bleeding index) in children seen at a unit of SUS, in the state of Rio de Janeiro. A comparative and statistical procedure (t-test, by means of the GMC program) was employed in order to assess the variation between initial and final mean VPI and GBI values. Initial values were registered in the beginning of the assistance program, and final values were registered after the children had participated in health promotion activities, which included weekly supervised brushing sessions, individual dietary guidance, collective instructive activities in which parents were present, adjusting of the oral environment, as well as restorative and surgical dental care, during an average period of six months.