Improving dental care access for low-income pregnant women

Pathways to Oral Health Among Low-income Pregnant Urban Women

NIH-funded research Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences · NIH-11099210

This study is looking at the challenges that low-income and minority women encounter when trying to get dental care while they're pregnant, especially in their first trimester, so we can find better ways to help them take care of their teeth during this important time.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11099210 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the barriers that low-income and minority women face in accessing dental care during pregnancy. It aims to collect data on socio-behavioral and psychosocial factors affecting these women's oral health, particularly during their first trimester. By understanding these barriers, the study seeks to improve the design of prenatal oral health programs and increase dental care utilization among this vulnerable population. The research will involve surveys and clinical oral examinations to assess dental health outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are low-income pregnant women, particularly those from racial and ethnic minority backgrounds.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those with sufficient access to dental care may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved access to dental care and better oral health outcomes for low-income pregnant women.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that addressing social and behavioral barriers can improve healthcare access, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Newark, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.