Improving dental health in Alaska Native children

Early Intervention for Childhood Caries to Address Alaska Native Disparities in Oral Health

['FUNDING_U01'] · ALASKA NATIVE TRIBAL HEALTH CONSORTIUM · NIH-11074670

This study is working to help Alaska Native children in the Yukon-Kuskokwim region avoid early tooth decay by providing dental care and teaching parents about good oral hygiene and nutrition, especially for kids under 2 years old.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_U01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorALASKA NATIVE TRIBAL HEALTH CONSORTIUM (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ANCHORAGE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11074670 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on addressing the high rates of early childhood caries (ECC) among Alaska Native children in the Yukon-Kuskokwim region. By coordinating dental care services and educating parents about oral hygiene and nutrition, the project aims to prevent dental issues before they require extensive treatment. The approach includes providing preventive counseling and initiating dental interventions for children under 24 months of age. The study involves collaboration with community health aides and dental health aide therapists to enhance access to dental care in remote areas.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are Alaska Native children under the age of 6 living in the Yukon-Kuskokwim region.

Not a fit: Patients outside the Yukon-Kuskokwim region or those over the age of 6 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of early childhood caries in Alaska Native children, leading to better overall health and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that coordinated care and preventive education can effectively reduce dental health disparities in underserved populations.

Where this research is happening

ANCHORAGE, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.