Promoting Behavioral Change for Oral Health in American Indian Mothers and Children

This is a randomized, controlled clinical trial. Six hundred mothers and their children will be randomized over a 2-year period to motivational interviewing (MI) plus enhanced community services vs. enhanced community services alone in equal numbers in the 2 groups. The MI sessions will involve home visits concentrating on the mitigation of behavioral risk factors for early childhood caries (ECC), shortly after childbirth and at 6, 12, and 18 months. The enhanced community services will involve development of culturally appropriate messages related to the mitigation of risk factors for ECC through public announcements and simple brochures. The primary outcome measure will be decayed, missing, and filled tooth surfaces (dmfs) of the children at ages 1, 2, and 3. Secondary outcomes will include children's ds, % with dmfs and ds >0, mother's dental knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors, caries patterns, and costs.

Inclusion criteria

• Be American Indian, as defined by the tribe
• Be mothers or caregivers of newborn children
• At least 15-44 years of age (Minors who are 15-17 years of age must get consent from a parent or legal guardian according to Tribal, State, and IHS rules and regulations)
• Able to read, understand, and sign a consent form/assent form,
• Be willing and able to follow study procedures and instructions.

Exclusion criteria

• No exclusion criteria. Although expected to be rare, if the father is a sole caregiver, he and his child will be eligible for the study.