NCT06890676 · Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services
Extending Dental Care to Nursing Home Residents to Reduce Mouth Infections and Incidence of Pneumonia and Improve Diabetic Glucose Control
(NHOralHealth)
What this study is about
The goal of this study is to learn if dental infection control treatment delivered to older adult nursing home residents at their place of residence will result in : * improved dental health * reduced risk of pneumonia * better glucose control for diabetic patients compared to the pre-project dental and general health evaluations of residents and the pre-project facility incidence of pneumonia.
View original scientific description
The goal of this study is to learn if dental infection control treatment delivered to older adult nursing home residents at their place of residence will result in : * improved dental health * reduced risk of pneumonia * better glucose control for diabetic patients compared to the pre-project dental and general health evaluations of residents and the pre-project facility incidence of pneumonia. Dental infection control treatment includes treating gum infections, stopping or slowing decay with fluoride, and assisting residents with effective tooth brushing and denture cleaning daily. Previous studies indicate dental infections can be inhaled and cause pneumonia or make diabetes worse. A shortage of dentists has limited care for nursing home residents. This project will allow dental hygienists and specially trained dental assistants to treat nursing home residents using telehealth methods (computers, cameras, internet, and telephone) to talk and work with dentists in different locations.
Interventions
OTHER
Comprehensive Oral Evaluation
A thorough check-up of teeth, gums, and surrounding tissues, including medical and dental history, to assess overall oral health and identify any infections.
OTHER
Intraoral Complete Radiographic Series
A series of x-rays of the whole mouth intended to display the, teeth, roots, periapical areas, bone, and areas without teeth.
OTHER
• Teledentistry-synchronous and asynchronous
The delivery or coordination of care for a patient using synchronous; real-time or aysnchronous communication between care providers or between care providers and a patient.
PROCEDURE
Periodontal Therapy
A therapeutic procedure designed to remove plaque and calculus (hardened plaque) causing gum infections that can lead to tooth loss and other medical complications.
PROCEDURE
Periodontal Maintenance Procedure
A periodic evaluation and therapeutic support procedure for patients with a history of gum infections.
PROCEDURE
Application of Caries Arresting Medicament
Topical application of decay arresting or inhibiting medicament.
OTHER
Oral Hygiene Assistance
Dental procedures aimed at educating patients on, and assisting patients with ,proper oral hygiene practices removing food debris, germ-laden plaque, and soft tartar using cloth wipes, toothbrush, floss, and using oral hygiene aids.
PROCEDURE
Referral for Treatment of Acute Oral Infection
Diagnosis and treatment of oral infection outside the scope of a dental hygienist or Expanded Function Dental Assistant.
Primary outcome measures
Periodontal Health
Time frame: One year from the delivery of the infection control interventional care
I. To evaluate the periodontal health of nursing home residents who receive dental infection control treatment compared to their pre-treatment peroidontal assessment using periodontal probe and inflammation diagnostic criteria endorsed by the American Academy of Periodontists and the European Federation of Periodontists.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Adult \> 60 years of age residing in a nursing home or communal care setting;
- Review of Medical history results in an assigned American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status Evaluation of Class II or III;
- Frailty Assessment of Low or Moderate using the Modified FRAIL Questionnaire;
- Consent is required for study participation, disease control oral healthcare, and access to medical records.
Exclusion criteria
- American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status Evaluation of Class IV or V;
- High frailty evaluation using the Modified FRAIL Questionnaire;
- Resident deemed behaviorally or physically difficult to treat by initial clinical assessment.
Where
- Jefferson City, Missouri
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Frequently asked questions
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.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Mar 26, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations