This is a randomized clinical trial to test the efficacy of a parent-targeted text message-based intervention program on caries incidence and oral health behaviors (child and parent). Parents (n= 850) across all pediatric clinic sites (Boston Medical Center and Community Health Centers (CHCs); DotHouse CHC, South End Community Health Center, and Codman Square CHC) will be randomized to receive either text messages (TMs) regarding oral health or TMs regarding child wellness. The study will enroll English and Spanish speaking parents and their youngest child who is \< 7 years old, has at least one tooth showing, and attends the targeted pediatric clinic to receive primary care (n= 1700). Parents will complete self-report surveys at baseline, and 2, 4, 12, and 24-months after baseline; receive and respond to TM assessments during the 4-month intervention; and will also receive TMs during a 'booster' period of one month, which will occur 12-months post baseline. Parent's children will be assessed for caries by a clinical oral examination performed by licensed Clinical Examiners at baseline, 12-and-24-months post-baseline.
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Dental Caries Increment
Timeframe: 24-month time point (oral assessment)
Parent/Caregiver Confidence to Brush
Timeframe: 4-month time point (survey)
Parent/Caregiver Motivation to Perform Oral Health Behaviors
Timeframe: 4-month time point (survey)
Parent/Caregiver Outcome Expectations for Oral Health Behaviors
Timeframe: 4-month time point (survey)
Self-efficacy to Perform Oral Health Behaviors
Timeframe: 4-month time point (survey)
Dental Caries Increment (Surface Level)
Timeframe: 24-month time point (oral assessment)