Improving toothbrushing skills in teens with autism using a mobile app
Official title: Testing a Mobile App to Improve Toothbrushing Skills and Habits in Teens With Autism
Run by University of Washington · NCT06208722 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new version of a toothbrushing app designed for teens with autism to see if it helps them brush their teeth better and prevent cavities.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 10 Years to 17 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 270 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Washington Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Seattle, Washington) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 9, 2024 |
| Main results expected | March 15, 2025 |
| Study ends | October 31, 2029 |
| Registry record updated | May 8, 2024 |
| Trial ID | NCT06208722 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adolescents aged 10 to 17 years diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder who can independently brush their teeth and use touch screen devices.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are unable to brush their teeth independently or do not have access to a mobile device may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This trial aims to modify an existing toothbrushing app specifically for teens with autism and evaluate its effectiveness compared to a control app. The study will be conducted in two phases: the first phase will focus on app modification and pilot testing, while the second phase will involve recruiting 270 participants aged 10 to 17 years to assess toothbrushing outcomes. Participants will use the app, complete surveys, and engage in feedback sessions to inform behavior change. The goal is to enhance toothbrushing habits and reduce the risk of tooth decay in this population.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve oral hygiene and reduce dental issues among teens with autism.
How similar studies have gone: While mobile health apps have shown promise in various health interventions, this specific approach targeting toothbrushing habits in teens with autism is relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Child participants will have Autism Spectrum Disorder that will be confirmed by: (1) chart review by clinical staff at the recruitment sites to determine if the child meets the DSM-5 criteria for autism spectrum disorder; OR (2) affirmative caregiver response (YES) to the question, "Has a healthcare provider ever diagnosed your child with autism?" * Willingness to take a CARS-2 \[Childhood Autism Rating Scale-2\], which will be administered by trained staff * Child brushes independently \[The child needs to be able to hold the toothbrush and move it around their teeth, mostly unassisted\] * Child uses touch screen devices (e.g.,smartphones or tablet) * Ages 10 to 17 years at enrollment * Caregiver and child able to communicate in English * Caregiver age ≥18 years and able to provide informed consent in English * Child and caregiver live in the same home * Child has ready access to a mobile device with a front-facing camera onto which apps can be downloaded (iPad or iPhone with iOS 16.0+; Android tablet or phone with Android 13.0+) * Family has a Wi-Fi or cellular data plan to allow app data to be transmitted, with confirmation of via tools like the Ookla Speed Test to help problem solve and ensure that app data can be transmitted Exclusion Criteria: • Children with autism younger than age 10 years will be excluded
Where it's running
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University of Washington
Seattle, Washington, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Donald Chi, DDS, PhD — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Deeksha Nemawarkar
- Email: dnemaw@uw.edu
- Phone: 206-221-8926
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.