Text2Floss: the feasibility and acceptability of a text messaging intervention to improve oral health behavior and knowledge

Abstract

Objective: Text messaging is useful for promoting numerous health-related behaviors. The Text2Floss 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: At 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.

Keywords: dental floss; dental health education; oral health; oral hygiene; text messaging.