Promoting Oral Health in Cleft Lip and Palate Patients: A Teledentistry and Social Media Messaging Intervention
Objectives: Children with cleft lip and/or palate (CLP) face unique oral hygiene challenges, placing them at a higher risk of dental caries and periodontal diseases. Teledentistry delivered via social media platforms can enhance oral health awareness and accessibility. This study evaluated the impact of a teledentistry-based program on toothbrushing behavior and clinical oral health outcomes among children with CLP.
Methods: A single-group pre-post intervention was conducted from October to December 2023 with 32 CLP children aged 6-14 years and their guardians. The intervention included onsite oral health education with entertainment activities, toothbrushing using plaquedisclosing tablets, and a social media group for guardians to share weekly photographs of plaque-disclosed teeth. Data collected included participation duration, plaque and gingival indices, and self-reported brushing behavior. Paired t-tests evaluated clinical changes, and correlation analysis examined relationships between participation levels and outcomes.
Results: Twenty-seven participants (84%) completed the 7-week program. Among these, 34% actively shared photos for 4-7 weeks, 28% for 1-3 weeks, and 22% did not engage. Self-reported improvements included increased brushing duration (p<0.001), better technique (p=0.003), and a more positive oral care attitude (p<0.001). Mean plaque and gingival indices significantly decreased from baseline (p<0.001). Participation level was not significantly associated with changes in clinical or behavioral outcomes.
Conclusions: A teledentistry-based program demonstrated potential to improve oral hygiene behaviors and clinical outcomes among children with CLP and to enhance dental care accessibility.
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