1) Role of Schools

Today schools are aware that oral health is a very important component of general health. Poor oral health negatively affects growth, development and learning, nutrition, communication, self-esteem, and various general health conditions. The schools have therefore evolved guidelines for the same. There is a person/team (school health panel) in-charge of implementing health and hygiene in school. Dentists are now being included in the above mentioned health panel. This is essential because the success of the school-based oral health program is dependent on their involvement and support.

2) Role of Parents

School-going children are almost totally dependent on their parents or school teachers-for understanding and motivation to help them participate in preventive dentistry or any such oral health programmes. Many teachers believe that oral health awareness should be the responsibility of parents and dental health professionals - not teachers. A child that is raised in a home where the parents are subject to cultural, technical, economic, and educational disadvantages, often reflects these shortcomings through poor oral as well as general health.

3) Role of Teachers

Committed, knowledgeable teachers are the cornerstone of all effective school-based oral health programs. Unfortunately, teachers receive little dental information in their undergraduate training to prepare them to teach the subject.

4) Role of Dentists

The support of the dental association enhances a programme's crgb(152, 3, 3)ibility, improves the image of the oral health professions, and is a practice builder for the participating dentists. A more consistent presence of the oral health professions throughout the academic year is needed to help strengthen school-community relationships.