Developing a toothbrushing intervention for pregnant women
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A toothbrushing intervention for pregnant women based on habit formation theory
IRAS ID
221041
Contact name
Rebecca V Harris
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Liverpool
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 6 months, 30 days
Research summary
Research shows the most effective way to prevent decay and gum disease is by brushing teeth with a fluoride toothpaste regularly (twice-daily). Evidence also suggests that oral health and indeed, the general health of the child can be influenced by the mother’s oral health, risking both oral and general health inequalities being passed down generations.
Pregnancy represents a significant life stage and ‘teachable moment’ when women may be open to adopting healthier behaviours. Evidence finds mothers with regular toothbrushing habits are more likely to socialise their children into this routine, passing this behaviour on.
The focus of the study is on habit formation theory which seeks to identify cues within existing individualised routines. These interventions go beyond education and seek to address how behaviour change can be implemented.
The aim of the research is to determine whether a tooth-brushing intervention, designed to increase habitual toothbrushing behaviours (twice-daily brushing) based on habit formation theory can be developed for women attending ante-natal care in a clinic setting.Phase 1: focus group work with PPI representatives exploring feasibility, concept design and practicalities of a habitual intervention and how this might be further developed with pregnant women attending for antenatal care. The focus groups will include women who are or have been pregnant and have utilised antenatal services in Liverpool.
Phase 2: incorporating phase 1 findings, further intervention development work in a clinic setting on a one-to-one basis with patients attending antenatal appointments. Focus will be placed on timing/feasibility issues and exploring the potential effectiveness of the intervention. A small number of women (5-15) will receive the developed habit formation intervention, followed by a questionnaire and interview follow-up around 2 months later.
The findings will inform an NIHR Research for Patient Benefit application to fund a full feasibility study.REC name
London - Dulwich Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
17/LO/0696
Date of REC Opinion
11 May 2017
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion