Tele-detection and referral pathways for early childhood dental care

A Tele-detection and Referral pAthways Model for Early Childhood cariEs Control- a Randomized Factorial Study: The TRACE Study

Not applicable Interventional University of Alexandria · NCT06019884

This study is testing if using smartphone cameras to spot early childhood cavities and different ways to refer kids for dental care can help improve dental health in children under six.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment480 (estimated)
AgesN/A to 6 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Alexandria Academic / other
Locations1 site (Alexandria)
Trial IDNCT06019884 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of tele-detection methods for early childhood caries (ECC) using intraoral and smartphone cameras, alongside different referral pathways, including user fee removal. The goal is to determine how these methods can improve the control of ECC in children under six years old. By comparing the outcomes of different referral strategies, the study aims to identify the most effective approach for managing dental health in young children.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are children under six years old with primary dentition whose legal guardians provide written consent.

Not a fit: Children over six years old, those with mixed or permanent dentitions, or those with certain disabilities will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve early detection and management of dental caries in young children, leading to better oral health outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While tele-detection methods in dental care are emerging, this specific approach combining tele-detection with referral pathways is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age \<6 years old with primary dentition only.
* Written consent from the legal guardian

Exclusion Criteria:

* Children above 6 years old.
* Children with mixed or permanent dentitions.
* Children with physical disabilities or psychiatric disorders.
* Children with intellectual disabilities.
* Children indicated for dental treatment under general anesthesia

Where this trial is running

Alexandria

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Early Childhood Caries
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.