Co-Designed Text Messaging Intervention for Parents of Children With Early Childhood Caries: Randomized Controlled Trial.
Rebecca Chen, Michelle Irving, Harleen Kumar et al.
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In 30 seconds
This multisite, assessor-blinded randomized controlled trial evaluated a co-designed, 12-week SMS education and support program for parents of children aged 0 to 6 years with early childhood caries attending six public dental clinics in New South Wales, Australia. Among 154 randomized participants, 124 completed follow-up. Twice-daily brushing was more commonly reported with SmilesUp than usual care, but the difference was not statistically significant (73.8% vs 66.7%; adjusted odds ratio 2.45, 95% CI 0.95-6.74; P =.07). The intervention improved reported bedtime routines and toothbrushing knowledge.
Key findings
- Reported adherence to bedtime routines was higher with SmilesUp than control: 88.5% vs 71.4% (aOR 3.25, 95% CI 1.15-10.18; P =.03).
- Toothbrushing knowledge was higher in the intervention group: 92.0% vs 78.8% (aOR 5.47, 95% CI 1.48-25.19; P =.02).
- Twice-daily brushing was reported by 73.8% vs 66.7%, a difference that was not statistically significant (aOR 2.45, 95% CI 0.95-6.74; P =.07).
- No statistically significant group differences were found in consumption of sugar-sweetened foods or beverages.
Why it matters
Parents of young children with caries may benefit from support for daily oral health routines. This trial suggests automated text messages can be delivered with high adherence and may improve bedtime routines and toothbrushing knowledge, while evidence for changing brushing frequency or dietary behaviors was inconclusive. The findings support further evaluation of mobile support as an adjunct to clinical care.
What to keep in mind
Follow-up was limited to 12 weeks, outcomes were largely parent-reported, and the authors call for larger, longer-term studies using clinical outcomes.