OpAL
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A qualitative study exploring preventive oral health advice and support provided to families of children with long-term medical conditions
IRAS ID
258822
Contact name
Jenny Owen
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Leeds
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
N/A, N/A
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 10 months, 31 days
Research summary
Dental decay is preventable; however nearly ¼ of children develop decay by age 5. In England this costs £3.4 billion to the NHS annually and the burden of decay has a significant impact on the individual and their family. Decay causes pain and suffering, changes what children eat, their speech, quality of life and self-esteem/social-confidence.\nChildren with long-term medical conditions are equally, (if not more) likely to develop decay and are at increased risk of associated morbidity. Treatment to manage decay often requires general anaesthetic, which is a high-risk operation for these children, who may have already had to endure multiple operations. Prevention of dental decay is of utmost importance for these children. \nThe general health of these children is the priority for families and healthcare teams, oral health is often considered less important. Balancing the management of their medical condition alongside oral health maintenance is crucial. Poor habits contribute to the development of dental decay and in turn can negatively affect the child’s condition and their ability to thrive. Poor oral health cannot only impair the management of their medical condition but also reduce quality of life and increase time spent in hospital.\nTwo key groups will be involved: Group A, families of children with long- term conditions under the care of Leeds/Sheffield Children’s Hospital. Group B, healthcare teams working at these centres. This study will explore current practice and any barriers/facilitators to supporting families of children with long-term medical conditions to adopt and maintain good oral health habits. Each participant will be asked to take part in either one interview/ focus group whichever is most convenient.\nThis study purposes to understand what works and what doesn’t work for these families and the healthcare teams while exploring a potential solution which is feasible and acceptable.\n
REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - Leeds West Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
19/YH/0361
Date of REC Opinion
6 Nov 2019
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion