F.L.O.S.S. Project (Facilitated Lessons on Oral and Systemic Health in Survivors)

BEHAVIORAL

Telehealth Intervention (THI)

The THI is a 6-month intervention. On a monthly basis, the survivor will be queried via telehealth (zoom or smart phone) oral and health related symptoms by nurse practitioner or navigator. Based on the initial imaging and the monthly assessments, the patients will be provided with tools and instructions for oral health maintenance which may consist of mucositis management and/or diet and lifestyle counseling. All participants will be provided a Resource directory that is to be used to identify a dentist that is best suited for him/her. Post intervention, follow-up assessments will be conducted at 6-, 9- and 12-months post randomization.

mucositis

Time frame: baseline and repeated at 6 and 12 months

The World Health Organization Oral Toxicity Scale rates the anatomical, and function aspects of oral mucositis. The severity of oral ulcers and ability to consume food and liquid is reported on a scale of 0 (no presentation of symptoms) to 4 (not able to tolerate food or liquid diet). Higher scores indicate worse oral mucositis symptomology. The PROMS questionnaire: Respondents will indicate their level of oral mucositis symptoms on a sliding scale ranging from no experience of a mucositis-related symptoms to complete experience of symptoms. Higher scores indicate worse self-reported mucositis.

gingival inflammation and periodontal disease

Time frame: baseline and repeated at 6 and 12 months

Using the modified gingival index, the investigators will rate inflammation of gums on a 5-point Likert Scale ranging from 0 (absence of inflammation) to 4(severe inflammation, marked redness, edema. Higher scores indicate more severe inflammation.

tooth decay

Time frame: baseline and repeated at 6 and 12 months

Delayed, Missing, Filled Teeth (DMFT) index based on intraoral imaging The DMFT index will be calculated by summing the number of delayed, missing, or filled teeth and dividing this value by the sum of the DMFT values in the study sample. Higher values equate to poorer tooth retention.

oral health related quality of life

Time frame: baseline and repeated at 6 and 12 months

Oral health Impact Profile (14-item OHIP-14 questionnaire) and the cancer specific oral health questionnaires (EORTC Quality of Life Questionnaires - oral health) This measure assesses the impact of oral health on overall wellbeing. Respondents will indicate their agreement with a statement (Yes/No). Higher scores indicate a greater impact of oral health on daily life. EORTC- Quality of Life Questionnaires Oral health: For items 1-11, Respondents indicate agreements on a 4-point Likert scale ranging from 1(not at all) to 4(Very much). On items 12-15, respondents indicate dichotomous agreement (Yes/No). Scores are summed and logged transformed to 0-100 scale. Higher scores indicate a better oral health related quality of life and better functioning.

What is a clinical trial?

A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.

Is it safe to participate?

Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.

Will I be compensated?

Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.

Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?

When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.

Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?

Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.

How long does a clinical trial last?

Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.