Dental caries (tooth decay) is a disease with significant public health implications afflicting low-income children, with marked rural disparities in disease prevalence and treatment. More than 70% of 11th grade children in Crook, Deschutes and Jefferson counties have experienced tooth decay. Effective approaches to prevent decay include brushing with fluoridated toothpaste and professional dental care. Medicaid enrolled children are legally entitled to dental care under Early Periodic Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment (EPSDT), yet \<50% had any care in 2010. Free distribution of toothpaste and toothbrushes combined with parental education can increase toothbrushing frequency and reducing tooth decay. However, many parents are confused about when to start, how much and often toothpaste should be used, and how to overcome behavioral difficulties in brushing toddlers' teeth or getting older children to brush their own. The investigators' objective is to implement and evaluate a community-wide toothpaste distribution campaign enhanced by telephone support for OHP children and adolescents and their families in Central Oregon
Age range
6 Months – 20 Years
Sex
ALL
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AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
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The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
increased twice-a-day toothbrushing Toothbrushing
Timeframe: 1 year