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T ext2 F loss: the feasibility and acceptability of a text messaging intervention to improve oral health behavior and knowledge
Author(s) -
Hashemian Tony S.,
KritzSilverstein Donna,
Baker Ryan
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
journal of public health dentistry
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.64
H-Index - 63
eISSN - 1752-7325
pISSN - 0022-4006
DOI - 10.1111/jphd.12068
Subject(s) - intervention (counseling) , oral health , text messaging , medicine , randomized controlled trial , family medicine , text message , behavior change , psychology , nursing , internet privacy , computer network , computer science , pathology
Objective Text messaging is useful for promoting numerous health‐related behaviors. The T ext2 F loss Study examines the feasibility and utility of a 7‐day text messaging intervention to improve oral health knowledge and behavior in mothers of young children. Methods Mothers were recruited from a private practice and a community clinic. Of 156 mothers enrolled, 129 randomized into text ( n = 60) and control groups ( n = 69) completed the trial. Participants in the text group received text messages for 7 days, asking about flossing and presenting oral health information. Oral health behaviors and knowledge were surveyed pre‐ and post‐intervention. Results A t baseline, there were no differences between text and control group mothers in knowledge and behaviors ( P > 0.10). Post‐intervention, text group mothers flossed more ( P = 0.01), had higher total ( P = 0.0006) and specific ( P < 0.05) knowledge, and tried to improve their child's oral health behaviors ( P = 0.03) and decrease their soda and sugary snacks ( P = 0.05) more than control mothers. Text messages were accepted and perceived as useful. Conclusions Mothers receiving text messages improved their own oral health behaviors and knowledge as well as their behaviors regarding their children's oral health. Text messaging represents a viable method to improve oral health behaviors and knowledge. Its high acceptance may make it useful for preventing oral disease.