Behavioral Intervention Program Based on Motivational Interview

Patient-related approaches may show better results in treatment of periodontal diseases. The best way for the dental surgeon to act using these methods is still inconclusive. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of using motivational interviewing as part of the treatment of periodontitis in order to increase adult adherence to adequate oral health behavior. A randomized clinical trial, with a sample size of at least 72 subjects, >18 years of age and with at least 18 teeth, will be investigated. Individuals in the test group will receive a collaborative communicative approach, inspired by the motivational interview, while the control group will receive the information/instructions in a conventional approach. The efficacy variables for evaluating the pattern of self-control of periodontal infection will be the bleeding on probing (BoP), gingival index (GI, primary efficacy variable), the plaque index (PI) and patient-based outcomes will be assessed using quality of life questionnaires. Additionally, questionnaires will be applied to obtain sociodemographic, behavioral and self-perception of oral health data. Univariate and multivariate analyzes will be performed and conducted in the Statistical Products Service Solutions software (SPSS, version 25). Thus, it will be possible to assess whether brief oral health education interventions centered on the individual can be used by dental surgeons in order to effectively improve oral hygiene behaviors in adults, obtaining better clinical results and a better quality of life for patients.

Inclusion criteria

• Adults, over 18-year-old;
• BoP (Bleeding on probing) in at least 30% of sites;
• Diagnosed periodontitis.

Exclusion criteria

• Smoking;
• Diabetes;
• Pregnancy (or the planning of pregnancy);
• Immunosuppressive illness or a medication, hepatitis, HIV, a bleeding illness or a anticoagulant;
• A need for the antibiotic prophylaxis;
• Hyposalivation or use of medications that cause hyposalivation