From Taro Roots to Dental Roots

Identify relevant literature on historical dietary patterns, cultural practices, oral health knowledge, and the impact of colonialism on the South Pacific Islands' populations.

Compile and review the literature to gain insights into the historical context and factors influencing dental health disparities in the region.

Pre-Colonial Era:

Gather historical data through archaeological findings, anthropological studies, and documented accounts.

Use this data to reconstruct dietary habits and oral health practices of pre-colonial Pacific Island communities.

Contemporary Era:

Conduct field surveys and interviews within selected populations.

Assess current dietary patterns, oral hygiene practices, and the prevalence of dental diseases.

Utilize dental examinations, surveys, and interviews to collect quantitative and qualitative data.

Obtain necessary permissions from local authorities, schools, and parents to conduct the survey.

Prepare survey questionnaires with questions related to oral hygiene practices, dietary habits, and dental health knowledge.

Assemble a team of local dentists and trained surveyors to conduct the field survey. Ensure that the survey team is familiar with the survey questionnaire and protocols.

Examining each individual's teeth.

Select a representative sample of grade schools from different regions or communities within the Pacific Island region.

Divide the students into groups based on grade level or age for ease of survey administration.

Distribute the survey questionnaires to the students and provide instructions for completing them.

Include questions such as:

• How many times a day do you brush your teeth?
• What is your typical diet like? How often do you consume sugary foods and drinks?
• Have you ever had a toothache or dental problems? Have you visited a dentist before?
• Do you have access to dental care in your community? If yes, how often do you get checked?

Quantitative Data:

Analyze dental examination results and survey responses using statistical techniques.

Identify patterns and associations between dietary habits, oral hygiene practices, and dental health outcomes.

Qualitative Data:

Analyze interview transcripts thematically to extract key insights and narratives.

Explore the cultural and social factors influencing dental health in the region.

Conduct follow-up research to assess the effectiveness of proposed solutions and interventions.

Continue to monitor dental health trends in the region and advocate for policies that promote improved dental health outcomes.