Text message reminders can help to improve tooth-brushing habits in teenagers, particularly those from low-income families, a new study from England has shown.
Researchers from the University of Sheffield, in collaboration with the Universities of Cardiff, Leeds, York and Dundee, investigated the effectiveness of a new program designed to encourage better brushing habits and reduce tooth decay in secondary school pupils.
The BRIGHT trial—published in Health Technology Assessment—included a classroom lesson and twice-daily text messages about tooth brushing. The researchers involved 4680 students from 42 schools across England, Scotland and Wales.
While the overall impact on preventing cavities was not significant, the intervention showed a positive effect on self-reported brushing habits six months later.
The report suggests the program may be particularly beneficial for students from low-income families, as the analysis found some evidence of prevention of tooth decay within this group.
“We checked almost 4700 secondary pupils’ teeth at the start of the study and after two and a half years,” Professor Zoe Marshman said.
“Pupils who received the lesson and text messages reported brushing their teeth more often after six months, but did not have less tooth decay or plaque after two and half years. Pupils eligible for free school meals, however, may have benefited more than others, suggesting a potential for the program to reduce inequalities in oral health.”
