Tooth decay in young children has traditionally been treated through surgical dental repair, an approach that does not address the oral hygiene and dietary behaviors that cause the disease. Professionals agree that behavioral strategies to prevent tooth decay are needed, but they have not been well studied in Hispanic children in the United States that have disproportionately high rates of this disease. Use of fluoridated toothpaste twice a day and consumption of a healthy diet can both prevent tooth decay and stop it from progressing.
This study seeks to evaluate the best way to encourage a healthy diet and proper fluoride use in children at greatest risk for tooth decay. To do so, this study will evaluate whether or not a family focused intervention, MySmileBuddy, is able to reduce tooth decay progression in Hispanic preschoolers at high risk of this disease.