uSing rolE-substitutioN In care-homes to improve ORal health (SENIOR)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
uSing rolE-substitutioN In care-homes to improve ORal health (SENIOR)
IRAS ID
297182
Contact name
Paul Brocklehurst
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Bangor University
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
, 277548; , ; , ; , ; ,
Duration of Study in the UK
3 years, 5 months, 30 days
Research summary
Poor oral health for older adults residing in care homes is a significant public health problem. Unlike previous generations, about half of all care home residents now have some of their own natural teeth, but their oral health is much worse than their community living peers. These can give rise to significant avoidable health and social care costs. Despite this dental service provision in care homes is poor and extremely variable. Access to domiciliary services is difficult and unscheduled care for dental problems (including hospital admissions) is common. Emerging evidence suggests that Dental Care Professionals (DCPs) offer a viable alternative to using dentists to meet the future challenges in dental public health. DCPs are a broad range of professionals, which include Dental-Therapists (D-Ts)and Dental Nurses (DNs). In a previous feasibility study, the Chief investigator PRB demonstrated that Dental therapists (D-Ts) can identify and screen for dental caries and periodontal disease and are safe as front-line health care workers. Use of DCPs within residential homes has the potential to improve the productivity of the provision of care and improve access to services.
The aim of this study is to undertake a cluster-randomised controlled trial to determine whether DCPs could reduce plaque levels (improve the oral cleanliness) of dentate older adults (65 years and over) residing in care-homes over a six-month period, when compared to ‘treatment as usual’ (commonly a reactive and ad hoc service provided by dentists). In addition, we aim to determine whether this effect is sustainable over a further six-month follow-up period.REC name
Wales REC 5
REC reference
21/WA/0116
Date of REC Opinion
29 Apr 2021
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion