The psychosocial impact of oral conditions during transition to secondary education.

Aim: Transition to secondary education is a significant life event. Little is known about the impact of oro-facial conditions during this time and how concerns may contribute as a risk factor to negative adaptation. The aim of the study was to explore experiences of young people with oro-facial conditions as they undergo the transition to secondary education. Study Design: Qualitative interview and diary study. 

Methods: Participants were children aged 11-12 years with a range of clinical conditions who attended a dental hospital. Participants completed a two-week diary during the transition and were interviewed about the diary and their experiences. The interviews were audio-taped and transcribed verbatim.

Results: Seventeen participants returned the diary and were interviewed; they described both changes in school environment and social interactions. A key finding was the concerns about aspects of themselves that children developed during this time. For some young people these concerns were about their oro-facial condition. No links between gender, severity of condition and experiences of school were apparent. 

Conclusion: Transition to secondary education affected young people to varying degrees. Timely treatment for those concerned about the condition of their teeth may improve the likelihood of positive adaptation.