The effectiveness of behavioral interventions to improve oral health in adolescents at different periods of follow-up: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundThe aim of this review was to examine the effectiveness of behavioral interventions at different follow-up periods to improve adolescents’ oral health.MethodsCENTRAL, MEDLINE, EMBASE and other databases were systematically searched. Inclusion criteria were as follows: participants aged 10–19 years old, randomized controlled trials using behavioral interventions, outcome measurements including oral health knowledge, attitudes, practices, and oral health status. For each included study, behavior change techniques (BCT) were identified and the quality and risk of bias assessments obtained. PROSPERO reference: CRD42018090341.ResultsAfter searching and screening, 17 clinical trials were included in the systematic review. The most commonly used BCTs were behavior health link, information on consequences, and social comparisons. A significant reduction of plaque index was detected (SMD:-0.46; 95 % CI:-0.82∼-0.10) for 3 months and (SMD:-0.71; 95 % CI:-1.08∼-0.33) for 6 months. The reduction of gingival index after 6 months was also significant (SMD:-0.90; 95 % CI:-1.33∼-0.47). Oral health knowledge and oral health-related behavior were also improved after behavioral interventions.ConclusionThere is moderate evidence that behavioral interventions are effective in promoting oral health in adolescents. To establish more evidence-based conclusions, further research should focus on: quality control of interventions, full descriptions regarding the BCT, long-term follow-ups, and behavior change reinforcements.Practical ValueGiven the need of early prevention of oral diseases, well-designed oral health promotion programme are needed to improve behavior and outcome of adolescents’ oral health.