Using technology and peer support to help parents prevent early childhood dental issues
Technology-enabled Anticipatory Guidance and Peer Support in Empowering Parents to Prevent Early Childhood Caries: A Randomized Controlled Trial
This study is testing if a new program that uses technology and support from other parents can help moms and dads prevent dental problems in their young kids better than regular education.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 600 (estimated) |
| Ages | 21 Years and up |
| Sex | Female |
| Sponsor | National University of Singapore Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Singapore) |
| Trial ID | NCT06558955 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study tests the effectiveness of a technology-enabled approach combined with peer support to empower parents in preventing early childhood caries (ECC). It is designed as a randomized controlled trial with two groups: one receiving conventional oral health education and the other receiving the innovative intervention. Up to 600 mother-child pairs will participate, with the intervention group attending four online sessions tailored to their child's developmental milestones. Outcomes will be measured through questionnaires, food diaries, and dental examinations to assess the impact on parental efficacy, childcare practices, and the incidence of ECC.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are mothers who are expecting or have infants under 3 months old, have internet access, and can communicate in English.
Not a fit: Patients whose children have serious medical conditions affecting oral health or who plan to emigrate within three years may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce the incidence of early childhood caries and improve oral health practices among parents.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise with technology-enabled health interventions, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Mother is currently expecting or has an infant below 3 months of age * Biological mother of the child * Mother with internet access and a mobile device * Mother can communicate in English * Mother aged 21 years and above Exclusion Criteria: * Child with disqualifying medical condition (e.g., tube feeding, severe neuromuscular disability) that would limit oral dietary intake, at-home oral hygiene practices, or receipt of dental examinations * Child with serious congenital syndrome that is expected to adversely affect the development of primary teeth * Family plans to emigrate within 3 years
Where this trial is running
Singapore
- National University Hospital — Singapore, Singapore (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Xiaoli Gao, PhD — National University of Singapore
- Study coordinator: Xiaoli Gao, PhD
- Email: dengx@nus.edu.sg
- Phone: (65) 6772 4990
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.